A PLACE TO SHINE A Space to Grow, Over 34 years ago, beloved Parish School teacher Margaret Noecker asked one of her student’s parents, Terri Garth, if she could help her put on a play with the class. Terri had a background in theatre, so it was a seamless fit. That play was a hit, sparking an idea that there might be more to this. “I went to (Parish School Founder) Robbin Parish, and Robbin was just the kind of person who said yes to everything,” Terri said. “Even though I wasn't a teacher, even though I didn't have any experience with special education, she could see that my vision could work. So, she hired me and let me start the drama program.” The stage was set, not only for future theatre productions, but as an essential part to Parish’s curriculum – the Arts & Sciences department. The department has grown over the years, now including drama, physical education, digital instruction, the library, nature studies along with art and music therapy, led by Terri as its Director. Finding their Voice At the heart of the department is a belief that the journey matters more than the destination. They focus on what children learn and experience as they create, not just what they produce. When you go to one of their classes, it’s more important to the teachers that the kids to feel good about themselves; that they feel comfortable. It’s a place where children can just be themselves.
| THE PARISH SCHOOL POST 10
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