Way to Go... showcasing the accomplishments and achievements of students and staff

"Most outstanding”… “Superior rating”… “First in class”...These are just a few of the results from the Red Deer Festival of Performing Arts which took place in April. Celebrating its 50th year, hundreds of students from Red Deer Public participated in the festival which provides an encouraging environment for students to understand the benefits of excellence in performance,   teamwork and self-discipline.  It teaches greater knowledge of the arts where students of all ages can discover and develop their talents as well as providing an opportunity to preform publicly and be recognized from professional adjudicators.

The students and staff from Annie L. Gaetz Elementary are especially proud of their recent success.  Over 300 students from the school participated and successfully competed in their category of Choral Speech, which encompasses all sorts of skills from the Language Arts, Drama and Music curriculum.  The students rehearsed for over a month in their homerooms and under the tutelage of the school’s music specialist Moira Milne. “I’m so proud of our students.  Their dedication to learning their parts and competing was evidenced by their outstanding marks and awards,” says Milne.

Vice principal, Katharyn Blades believes the festival is one more way the school can showcase their fine arts focus and involve students in literacy opportunities.  This all ages program provides a valuable educational experience and a greater appreciation and understanding of the arts.

“It encourages creative speaking and helps you with your English.  It’s really neat to do because, personally, the poems make me feel happy and anyone can do it if they try,” says Ayrton, a grade five student from Annie L. Gaetz.

Prior to this event, the grade four/five school choir also performed at events such as The Festival of Trees and Symphony Kids. They have recently been invited to perform at the Lieutenant Governor’s Gala in June.  The students not only have a passion for performing,but they also say it’s a great way to meet new friends.

To the elementary, middle and high school students who spent hours preparing for one of the largest art festivals in Central Alberta, and to staff members and organizers who supported and encouraged students every step of the way, we say...

Way to Go!