Arts Education Feature

Friends of the Center Essay Contest

In October 2009, students within the region were invited to submit an essay about the importance of the performing arts in their lives and for the community. The contest aimed to cultivate student imaginations, enhance their critical writing skills and instill a greater appreciation for the magic of the performing arts in young audiences. We received over 130 essays from 9 participating schools.

Elementary School (Grades 3 – 5)
Question: What does art mean to me?

Student Name: Rachael Hunt
Grade: 5
School: Our Lady of Fatima
Teacher Name: Ms. Filson
Principal Name: Mrs. Partlow

» Click here to read her essay.

Middle School (Grades 6 - 8)
Question: Why are the arts important to our community?

Student Name: Anna Fogarty
Grade: 8
School: Sacred Heart
Teacher Name: Ms. Shive
Principal Name: Ms. Noceti

» Click here to read her essay.

High School (Grades 9 - 12)
Question: How has the Gallo Center impacted our community?

Student Name: Kelly Lonergan
Grade: 11
School: Johansen High School
Teacher Name: Mrs. Sousa
Principal Name: Mr. Harrison

» Click here to read her essay.