Principal’s Corner by Nick Sofio

 

Extending learning beyond the school day provides our students with the opportunity to grow academically. Educators will often advocate for students to spend some time reading, practicing math or playing a board game as family to help reinforce these skills. There are also multiple after-school opportunities our schools provide that help build the skills our students learn within the school day. 

One unique after-school opportunity our Lakeview  third- through fifth-graders recently participated in was putting on a performance of “Sleeping Beauty.” Working with professional actors/directors Chris and Jordyn from Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre, our students spent the week learning all about what it takes to bring a performance to life. In the span of just five short days after school, students audition, practice and rehearse their roles to provide a public performance Friday evening.

The students take great pride in the role in which they are cast and look forward to this week each and every year. For many, it is the very first time performing on any stage in front of a public audience. The week of Prairie Fire helps students build confidence in themselves to perform on a large stage, to make mistakes and move on, and to develop a love for the performing arts that can last a lifetime. 

We appreciate our parent organization LESO for helping to support our week working with Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre. We are also most grateful to the families of our students for all of the extra time and support to help ensure a successful week of practice and an amazing public performance.   

Nick Sofio is the principal of Lakeview Elementary School.