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- HOME | The SDSCPA
CREATIVE WRITING DESIGN & PRODUCTION DANCE MUSIC THEATRE VISUAL & MEDIA ARTS CREATIVE WRITING DESIGN & PRODUCTION DANCE MUSIC THEATRE VISUAL & MEDIA ARTS CREATIVE WRITING DESIGN & PRODUCTION DANCE MUSIC THEATRE VISUAL & MEDIA ARTS CREATIVE WRITING DESIGN & PRODUCTION DANCE MUSIC THEATRE VISUAL & MEDIA ARTS CREATIVE WRITING DESIGN & PRODUCTION DANCE MUSIC THEATRE VISUAL & MEDIA ARTS YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE Location EXPLORE Book a campus tour and see where creativity comes to life. Note WATCH Attend one of our captivating performances or creative exhibitions! User AUDITION Show us your passion and take the first step toward joining our arts community. EXPRESSION SDSCPA provides a supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore and develop their creative talents through various artistic disciplines. COMMUNITY SDSCPA nurtures collaboration, encourages mutual respect, and fosters a shared passion for creativity among students and faculty. OPPORTUNITY SDSCPA provides students with opportunities to access to professional networks, real-world experiences, and diverse programs that enhance their artistic skills and career prospects. SDUSD Resources These links connect students and families to helpful San Diego Unified School District resources for both middle and high school. You’ll find information on academic planning, graduation requirements, extracurricular opportunities, and supports that help guide students through every stage of their school journey. Middle School High School
- PARENT & STUDENT | The SDSCPA
BELL SCHEDULE TRANSPORTATION ACADEMIC RESOURCES STUDENT ACTIVITIES CORE ACADEMY SITE CALENDAR SENIOR CLASS Calendar CALENDAR BELL SCHEDULE A/B Day Early Release/ PD Early Releases Dates - No Late Bus Service TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULE DOWNLOAD CORE ACADEMY Core Academy provides students with an opportunity to receive additional academic support while also recouping a full-day absence. Each session is four hours, and students must remain for the entire session in order to clear a full-day absence. SIGN UP STUDENT ACTIVITIES SDSCPA offers a variety of student activities during lunch and after school, including clubs, tutoring, and staff-supported programs in the Creative Genius Lab. Activities List ACADEMIC RESOURCES Below are helpful online resources for parents and students to support learning, communication, and school success. POWERSCHOOL Stay connected with real-time access to grades, attendance, schedules, and assignments. The portal helps parents and students track progress and communicate with teachers easily. CLEVER Clever is your one-stop hub for all your learning apps and resources. Just log in once to access everything you need for class—assignments, tools, and more—all in one place! CANVAS Canvas is your online classroom. Log in to view assignments, submit work, check grades, join discussions, and message your teachers—all in one place. Stay organized and on track with everything you need for school! SENIOR CLASS WEBSITE SDSCPA ONLINE APPAREL STORE Every purchase you make is not just a style statement but also a step towards helping the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts (SDSCPA). A generous 25% of all sales go directly to the school, aiding in enriching educational programs, supporting the arts, and nurturing the dreams of our talented students. SHOP NOW!
- PARENT & STUDENT HUB | The SDSCPA
BELL SCHEDULE TRANSPORTATION ACADEMIC RESOURCES STUDENT ACTIVITIES CORE ACADEMY SITE CALENDAR SENIOR CLASS Calendar CALENDAR BELL SCHEDULE A/B Day Early Release/ PD Early Releases Dates - No Late Bus Service TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULE DOWNLOAD CORE ACADEMY Core Academy provides students with an opportunity to receive additional academic support while also recouping a full-day absence. Each session is four hours, and students must remain for the entire session in order to clear a full-day absence. SIGN UP STUDENT ACTIVITIES SDSCPA offers a variety of student activities during lunch and after school, including clubs, tutoring, and staff-supported programs in the Creative Genius Lab. Activities List ACADEMIC RESOURCES Below are helpful online resources for parents and students to support learning, communication, and school success. POWERSCHOOL Stay connected with real-time access to grades, attendance, schedules, and assignments. The portal helps parents and students track progress and communicate with teachers easily. CLEVER Clever is your one-stop hub for all your learning apps and resources. Just log in once to access everything you need for class—assignments, tools, and more—all in one place! CANVAS Canvas is your online classroom. Log in to view assignments, submit work, check grades, join discussions, and message your teachers—all in one place. Stay organized and on track with everything you need for school! SENIOR CLASS WEBSITE
- ACADEMICS | The SDSCPA
STUDENTS EARN AN AVERAGE OF 17 UNITS OF COLLEGE CREDIT 32 WEIGHTED COURSES ARE OFFERED 100% GRADUATION RATE $14.4 MILLION OF SCHOLARSHIP MONEY EARNED LAST YEAR THE ART OF THINKING CRITICALLY At SDSCPA, we take pride in developing sophisticated, literate, and critical thinkers ready to engage in the global economy. Our rigorous academic program challenges students to think deeply, communicate clearly, and apply intellectual curiosity across all disciplines. Rooted in a culture that values both scholarship and creativity, our students graduate prepared to innovate, lead, and make meaningful contributions to the world. ACADEMICALLY RIGOROUS AND ARTS INTEGRATED CURRICULUM We offer students a wide range of opportunities to expand their academic horizons. Through our partnership with San Diego City College, students can enroll in dual-credit courses that fulfill both UC/CSU admission and high school graduation requirements—over 90% of SDSCPA students complete at least one college course. Our curriculum also includes Honors and Advanced Placement options in the arts, English, mathematics, science, and history/social science, as well as innovative UC Curriculum Integration (UCCI) courses that combine academic rigor with creative, arts-based learning. HONORED FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT The San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts (SDSCPA) holds the highest level of accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)—a comprehensive review process that affirms our commitment to excellence in teaching, learning, and student achievement. WASC accreditation ensures that our academic programs meet the highest standards of quality and continuous improvement recognized across California and the nation. SDSCPA is also recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation’s “Best High Schools,” an honor that highlights schools demonstrating exceptional academic performance, college readiness, and equitable access to opportunity. These distinctions reflect SDSCPA’s dedication to preparing students for success in both higher education and the creative industries. STUDIO HABITS OF MIND At the heart of our work is the Studio Habits of Mind framework, which cultivates students’ ability to develop craft, persist, envision, express, observe, reflect, and explore. These habits build the intellectual discipline of a scholar. Students learn to question deeply, think critically, and translate ideas into action through curiosity and reflection. By engaging in these habits, they strengthen analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—skills essential to all academic and creative pursuits.
- MUSIC | The SDSCPA
MUSIC The SDSCPA Music Department inspires passion through rigorous programs in instrumental, vocal, and music production. With courses in theory, piano, and ensembles, students gain artistry, resilience, and professionalism, preparing for excellence in college, careers, and lifelong musical journeys. LEARN MORE What sets SDSCPA apart from the rest? MULTIPLE PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES Perform both on stage and throughout the San Diego community as a soloist, in small chamber groups, and in large ensembles FACULTY Vocal Educator Elena Correia Elena Correia holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from The Juilliard School and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from SDSU. With 15 years of experience as an opera singer, Ms. Correia has captivated audiences worldwide, earning 35 international awards, including an Independent Grammy Award. In addition to opera, Elena has a deep love for all music genres, which led to the creation of the jazz band J.E.T. As an educator, Ms. Correia has 20 years of teaching experience in all genres of vocal performance. She is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese. Ms. Correia is dedicated to providing joy and education through vocal art and guiding others to find their unique path in the world of music. Mail Band & Jazz Educator Chaz Cabrera Chaz Cabrera's professional career started at the age of 18 when he formed a group named Jazz Avenue with five of his close friends. They competed in the national competition SchoolJam USA 2012 (sponsored by the National Association of Music Merchants), where they won the prestigious title of Best Teen Band and were given the opportunity to perform at the Musikmesse Convention in Frankfurt, Germany. Cabrera graduated with a high school degree from the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts in 2011. He continued his studies at Grossmont College, originally as a Biology Major, but changed his major to music education in 2015, inspired by his professor, friend, and colleague Derek Cannon. He attended San Diego State University in 2017 and graduated in 2020 with a BM in Music Education. He earned his Career Technical Education credential in 2021 and achieved his Masters in Music for Jazz Performance from San Diego State University in 2024. Cabrera is now director of jazz studies at his alma mater, the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. He was recognized as Jazz Educator of the Year in 2021 by the Southern Board of California Music Educators Association. Cabrera notably arranges for the San Diego Gay Men's Chorus, San Diego Zoo, Wild Animal Park, Legoland, and SeaWorld. Cabrera directs his own big band known as the JazzKatz Orchestra and performs with San Diego's premier groups, such as the Gaslamp Quarter Jazz Orchestra, Bill Yeager Jazz Orchestra, Chameleons of the San Diego Zoo, The Legoland Brass Band, and SeaWorld. Mail Vocal Educator Sarah Lehman Sarah Lehman is a dedicated choir teacher with a profound passion for music education. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Music (Magna Cum Laude) with a concentration in Vocal Performance from California State University at San Marcos and furthered her education with a Teaching Credential and a Master’s Degree in Teaching from San Diego State University. Having found solace and inspiration in choir during her youth, Sarah is committed to creating a supportive and enriching environment for her students, fostering their musical and personal growth. Mail Piano Educator Justin Hansen Justin R. Hansen is an accomplished pianist, composer, and educator with a diverse background spanning classical performance, composition for film and television, and music instruction. Throughout his academic career, Justin explored a variety of instruments, including clarinet, saxophone, jazz piano, and percussion. His talent was recognized early, earning him a full scholarship to college, where he played piano, bassoon, cello, and percussion. During his associate’s degree studies, Justin had the honor of performing Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto with the Southwest Symphony Orchestra in Kyoto, Japan and Rhapsody in Blue with the university symphonic band. During his Bachelor’s studies, Justin expanded his focus to include composition and conducting, alongside his Piano Performance degree. One of the highlights of this period was co-writing the score for the original musical Nathan Hale. After completing his degree, Justin performed his senior recital in London and Oslo, and upon returning, was invited to perform Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto with the Southwest Symphony Orchestra. Following his degree, Justin was appointed as a faculty member at Utah Tech University, where he taught music theory, ear training, and private piano lessons. In addition, he served as a piano accompanist and vocal coach for music majors. It was during this time, under the mentorship of composition instructor Shannon Roberts, that Justin’s passion for writing music grew, leading him to pursue a Master’s Degree in Composition. With a lifelong admiration for film scores, Justin sought a graduate program specializing in writing for film and television. He was accepted to both the Berklee School of Music and the Seattle Film Institute, ultimately choosing the latter to further his education in a city he cherished. Under the mentorship of Emmy Award-winning composer Hummie Mann, Justin earned his Master’s Degree in Film Composition. During his time in Seattle, Justin was commissioned to compose a piece for women’s choir, strings, and piano. Titled The Myth, the work, inspired by poetry from Emily Dickinson, was premiered in 2019 by the Ancora Women’s Choir and the Northwest Corner String Quartet. Now based in San Diego, California, Justin is an active composer, performer, and educator. He collaborates with the Logos Trio, San Diego Opera, the San Diego Music Society, and the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. Additionally, he serves as the music director and instructor for WrightWay Coaching, based in New York City. Mail Orchestra Educator Tamara Paige "Every child deserves a champion; an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best they can possibly be." -Rita Pierson Ms. Tamara Paige has been a music educator in the San Diego area for nearly 18 years directing a wide range performance ensembles and creating collaborative experiences within the community. Ten of those years were spent here at SDSCPA where Paige taught and directed several award winning ensembles and served as orchestra, jazz and band director from 2001-2012. She then worked at Francis Parker School where she built a robust strings program for students grades 3-12. Tamara was also instrumental in establishing a new music program at the Academy of Our Lady Of Peace where she served as choral and instrumental director. She is honored to return SDSCPA this year as strings and orchestral studies director for both Middle and High School students. Her music programs over the years celebrated for its professional level of performance, have received top honors and national recognition and have sent scores of students onto successful college and professional musical careers. Tamara’s own passion and energy for teaching and learning has led to many highlights her career including Site Teacher of the Year at SCPA in 2007. In 06’ and 09’ she was awarded the California Music Educators Association’s “Orchestra Educator of the Year” and in 2010 was guest conductor for San Diego Unified School District’s first Middle School Honor Orchestra. She conducted an all-student pit orchestra for the San Diego Repertory Theater’s professional productions of Hairspray: The Musical (2010) and Tommy (2011). Both productions won the prestigious Craig Noel Award in several categories including “Outstanding Musical” and Tommy received “Best Musical Direction”. Ms. Paige also had a unique opportunity to serve as Master Teacher for the Point Loma String Project, a program designed for Point Loma Nazarene University Music Majors seeking to gain real hands-on experience teaching elementary aged children. Under her mentorship, aspiring teachers were able to work weekly with nearly 100 students. Tamara’s commitment to serving the community also led her work with the California Youth Conservatory Theater by joining and recruiting young musicians from all over San Diego County to perform in several of their Productions. Their production of Les Miserables was awarded San Diego Bravo Award’s “Best Musical Production” (2013). Ms. Paige is excited to return to SDSCPA as the new chair of the music department. https://www.sandiegoreader.com/news/2018/apr/19/blurt-music-teacher/?amp&page=all Mail Band Educator Claire Tongpalad Bio forthcoming Mail
- MATHEMATICS | The SDSCPA
MATHEMATICS The Mathematics Department at SDSCPA provides a rigorous, Common Core–aligned curriculum that builds a deep understanding of concepts and skills across all grade levels. Through the Math Practice Standards, we emphasize critical problem-solving, creativity, and perseverance, fostering a growth mindset and resilience in every learner. Our mission is to help students approach math with confidence, seeing it as both an academic discipline and a real-world tool. Through collaboration, inquiry, and authentic applications, we prepare students to reach their full potential and succeed beyond the classroom. FACULTY Bryan Constantino Math Educator Mail Emil Mayor Department Chair Mail Jean Dugan Math Educator Mail Lindsay Ten Math Educator Mail David Flores Math Educator Mail Priscilla Aguillar Math Educator Mail Kelly McNeil Math Educator Mail
- ADMINISTRATION | The SDSCPA
ADMINISTRATION Mail Principal Timothy Farson Timothy Farson brings an unwavering sense of commitment and passion to his role at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts (SDSCPA), a nationally renowned institution celebrated for its ability to personalize artistic and academic achievement for a highly diverse student body. Under his leadership, SDSCPA maintains the highest expectations for students and staff, fostering an environment where something truly extraordinary happens each day. Raised in a small rural town in Ohio, Farson experienced firsthand the transformative power of the arts. For him, the arts provided a place of belonging, self-discovery, and the freedom to explore beliefs, curiosities, and personal voice. Inspired by his high school drama teacher, Ms. Meggitt—who recognized his leadership potential and created opportunities despite his own self-doubts—Farson developed a deep appreciation for the role the arts play in empowering student voices, whether expressed through visual art, performance, or leadership. Farson began his university studies in Philosophy at Kent State University before transferring to New York University in search of a more urban and artistic environment. His life took a profound turn on September 11, 2001, when he witnessed the fall of the World Trade Center towers. This experience brought a deep awareness of humanity’s universal need for connection and voice—an awareness that would later inform his belief in art’s ability to give expression to diverse perspectives, including those often silenced. In 2009, Farson began his teaching career at SDSCPA as an English and middle school science teacher. Over the years, he has served in numerous leadership capacities, including Journalism Adviser, ASB Student Government Adviser, School Site Council member, and Department Chair. Throughout his tenure, he has been a steadfast advocate for preserving and enhancing the school’s distinctive and transformative learning environment. Farson leads from the heart, guided by the philosophy that engaging hearts engages minds. This approach extends beyond the classroom into his daily work with staff, students, families, and the broader arts community. A philosopher by nature, he continuously reflects on ways to amplify student voice, create innovative learning environments, and establish sustainable infrastructure in the face of challenges such as inadequate education funding. Farson is deeply committed to uniting the SDSCPA community through a shared vision of delivering a transformative arts and academic education—one that inspires hope, fosters connection, and empowers the next generation of creative leaders. Mail Associate Prinicipal Roxann Hatfield Mrs. Hatfield is the newest member of the SDSCPA administration. She is not a stranger to the SDSCPA family having taught in the Science Department for 12 years and then serving as the school’s Graduation Coach for the past 6 years. She is excited to be part of such a visionary team. She has served on a variety of committees and organizing 6th and 9th grade Bridging Days. She believes that all students can learn and each student has a special path/ journey in place for them but it is up to them to take the first step. Educators serve as the facilitators in molding our young people into well-rounded individuals who can take on the world. Mrs. Hatfield holds a Bachelors of Arts in Biochemistry from UCSD and earned her Administrative credential and Masters in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University. She is a native Californian. Mail Associate Principal Richard Ojeda Looking toward a future grounded in equitable opportunity, Mr. Ojeda approaches education with a strong commitment to fairness, honesty, collaboration, and accountability. A lifelong San Diegan, he attended Brooklyn Elementary School, Roosevelt Middle School, and graduated from Hoover High School in 1992. Mr. Ojeda enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Watch and was later stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. After receiving an honorable discharge, he pursued higher education and discovered his passion for supporting students with diverse learning needs. As an Education Specialist, Mr. Ojeda worked closely with students with significant cognitive and physical disabilities, partnering with families to promote inclusion and ensure all students have equitable access to education. He also earned a master’s degree in special education and continues to serve the community through dedicated administrative leadership. Mail Instructional Coordinator Laura Schiavo Laura Schiavo is a violinist who whole-heartedly believes in the power of arts education and its ability to transform lives. She started the violin at age three and has been in love with music ever since. Laura was born in California, but spent most of her childhood moving around the country as an Army kid. She always felt challenged in making new friends and starting over at new schools every few years and longed for a true sense of belonging. When she moved to North Carolina in 1997, she joined her 7th grade orchestra at school. For the first time, she felt like she had a place at school where she was meant to be. She was around like minded people who loved music in the way she did, in the same way that music spoke to her heart. This experience and finding this sense of belonging and community in her middle school orchestra was the beginning of her journey to become an orchestra teacher herself. Her passion for education began with the desire to give the same gift of belonging and love to students that changed her whole life. She was thrilled to join the SDSCPA team in the 2022-23 school year as Instructional Coordinator for the Academics to support teachers and students in ensuring the highest quality instruction in every classroom in communities where everyone is loved and valued. She loves being part of the SDSCPA team to continually create that feeling of belonging and community in our entire school that she experienced first in orchestra. Laura loves the intersection of arts and academics and strives to honor students as artists through the lens of everything they study at SDSCPA. Education has been her lifelong passion and she began her teaching career in the San Diego Unified School District in 2008. Prior to coming to SDSCPA, Laura was a Resource Teacher for the MSAP Grant in SDUSD’s VAPA Department and had been a classroom teacher for thirteen years. She taught orchestra and math at CPMA Middle School for five years and taught elementary orchestra for eight years at Paradise Hills, Penn, Perry, and Zamorano Elementary. Laura has a BA in Music from Point Loma Nazarene University with a concentration in Music Education, and an MA in Educational Leadership and Administration from Brandman University. She holds an Administrative Credential and California Single Subject Teaching Credentials in both Music and Foundational Level Mathematics. In 2012, Laura received the Schuchman Award for Excellence in Music Education from SDUSD and also received the CMEA Elementary Music Specialist Award. She received the CMEA Middle School Specialist Award in 2020. In 2017, Laura traveled to Washington D.C. to be on a team of teachers working with NAfME and the Library of Congress and she became a Teaching with Primary Sources Curriculum Writer; her curriculum can be found on the NAfME website. She was a member of the 2018 California Department of Education Visual and Performing Arts Standards Advisory Committee as the standards were revised, which are now the adopted California Arts Standards. Mail Artistic Coordinator Sam Robles Sam Robles is a Grammy-nominated musician, educator, and arts leader whose career bridges world-class performance and transformative arts education. As a performer, he has recorded and toured internationally with acclaimed artists including Solange, Ziggy Marley, Lauryn Hill, Kamasi Washington, Kelis, and Weezer, with his work featured on Grammy-nominated albums and film scores. A founding member of the Tropi-Funk ensemble Jungle Fire, this band has been recognized by the Los Angeles Times as one of LA’s best live bands, captivating audiences across the globe. Equally dedicated to education, he serves as Instructional Coordinator for the Arts at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts, where he co-designs curriculum, coaches teachers, and advances pre-conservatory training aligned with national arts standards and accreditation. His leadership has extended statewide through roles with The California Arts Project and traditional comprehensive high schools, where he developed innovative, culturally relevant programs, secured major arts funding, and guided thousands of students and educators. Rooted in his belief that excellence in the arts transforms lives, Mr. Robles continues to inspire the next generation of artists while maintaining an active and vibrant performance career. Mail MSAP Grant Instructional Coordinator Susan Strasser Susie Strasser received her B.A. in English and Psychology from UC Davis in 2000. She returned to San Diego and received her Masters in Education from UCSD in 2003 and her Administrative Credential from SDSU. Since starting at SCPA, she has taught AP English Literature, AP English Language, AP Psychology, American Literature, 9th grade English, Martial Arts, PE, and AVID. Susie is also head of the Creative Writing Department, which inducted its first majors in the 2011-2012 school year and teaches all the Creative Writing classes. In addition to teaching high school, Susie also teaches Kung Fu and Tai Chi at a local martial arts school. Over the past decade, she has competed in international tournaments in California, Florida, and Taiwan and has performed in China. Mail CGSP Grant Instructional Coordinator Acacia Thede Acacia Thede is an accomplished education professional with over two decades of experience as a teacher, administrator, and human resources leader. She currently serves as Instructional Coordinator for the San Diego Unified School District, where she leads the Golden State Pathways Program, fostering strategic partnerships and expanding college and career opportunities for students. A former Chief Human Resources Officer, Acacia has advanced equity initiatives, designed teacher pipeline programs, and championed workforce diversity. She also teaches as a Lecturer in the School of Teacher Education at San Diego State University. Holding a Master of Arts in Education Administration and Supervision from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Iowa, Acacia is committed to ensuring all students have access to meaningful college and career pathways that prepare them for future success. Mail VAPA Facilities Manager Aaron Rumley Aaron Rumley brings a rich blend of theatrical production, technical expertise, and organizational leadership to his role as Visual & Performing Arts (VAPA) Facilities Manager at SDSCPA. With more than twenty years of experience in theatre production and stage management, Aaron ensures that the school’s performance spaces, technical operations, and artistic environments run smoothly and creatively. Professional Background: •Theater Production Specialist – Previously served as Production Manager at North Coast Repertory Theatre, where he managed all aspects of staging, scheduling, technical coordination, and logistics across diverse productions. •Stage Management and Design – Skilled in both sound design and hands-on production, Aaron has supported shows ranging from Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Great Nome Gold Rush to Rabbit Hole and Wit. •Technical Coordination – Known for his ability to merge artistic vision with practical infrastructure, ensuring performances meet both creative and technical standards. •Leadership and Collaboration – At SDSCPA, Aaron partners closely with faculty, students, and staff to uphold the highest standards of performance practice, safety, and resource management. Aaron’s leadership keeps SDSCPA’s creative heartbeat strong—ensuring that students and faculty have the technical excellence and supportive environment needed to bring their artistic visions to life. ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT Cruzanne Conrique Mail Administrative Assistant Riza Gonzales Mail Site Tech/Parent Portal Maria Avina Ramirez Mail Attendance Clerk Lashawn White Mail Transportation/Enrollment Maria Reyes Barajas Mail Receptionist Eric Schlumpf Mail Finance Clerk Andrea Gutierrez Mail Auditions Coordinator Mark Raines Mail MSAP Grant Resource Teacher Anne Marie Manibusan Mail Enrollment
- ABOUT | The SDSCPA
WHERE ARTISTS ARE NURTURED: WELCOME TO THE SDSCPA. The San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts (SDSCPA) is a premier 6–12 public magnet school offering both rigorous academic instruction and pre-professional training in the visual and performing arts. With comprehensive majors in dance, music, theatre, visual arts, creative writing, and design & production, students receive intensive, hands-on education from expert artist-educators. SDSCPA prepares students for college, conservatory, and careers by fostering discipline, creativity, leadership, and critical thinking within an inclusive, diverse community. Our students graduate ready to excel—artistically, academically, and personally. VISION All students will complete a pre-collegiate curriculum in the arts and academics. All students will demonstrate they are (1) prepared for conservatory study in the arts and (2) a sophisticated, literate critical thinker ready to engage in the 21st-century creative economy. MISSION Through a safe and supportive learning environment, we will fulfill our promise to students by: Offering a rigorous pre-collegiate scope and sequence of courses in the academics and arts Ensuring all students have access to diverse industry professionals in the arts and academics Providing a passionate, student-centered staff dedicated to ensuring all students experience success Providing ample opportunities for innovation, creativity, and critical thinking SLOs Each SLO clarifies for the entire school community what students will know, understand and be able to do when they graduate from high school (i.e., a citizen who learns, thinks and communicates with confidence). The SLOs guide policies, procedures, and standards-based curricula that align with these SLOs: SCHOLAR: SDSCPA Scholars are critical thinkers with a deep rooted passion for learning and discovery. Our scholars are creative problem-solvers with the ability to clearly communicate--read, write, listen, and speak-- about the complexities of the world, their art, and their learning. CITIZEN: SDSCPA citizens are ready for a highly collaborative environment by being welcoming, engaging, and inclusive of a highly diverse community--rich in ideas, backgrounds, and world views. Our citizens engage in meaningful action toward equity and equality for all people and are active participants in the community around them. PROFESSIONAL: SDSCPA professionals strive toward excellence in preparation for success in college, career, and life. Our professionals are reflective and always improving and show up for responsibility with a sense of preparedness and active stance toward lifelong learning and success. Our students do not give up! ARTIST: SDSCPA artists are courageous and self-disciplined individuals with a passion to create authentic and meaningful works of art. Our artists actively engage in intensive arts training in order to develop a solid foundation for individual expression at the highest level. 4 POINT STRATEGY FOR STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT SDSCPA 4 Point Strategy for increasing student achievement using the framework of Marzano High Reliability Schools and ACCPAS SARC The SARC contains information about the condition and performance of each California public school. MSAP This 5-year grant to amplify the arts supports the following initiatives and opportunities on the SDSCPA campus. GUIDING PRINCIPLES The SDSCPA fosters a nurturing, inclusive environment emphasizing empathy, diversity, lifelong learning, and transformative arts education. SSC & SGT At our school, the School Site Council (SSC) and the Site Governance Team (SGT) work together to support student success through shared decision-making. The SSC is made up of parents, staff, students, and the principal, and is responsible for developing and monitoring the School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA), as well as overseeing how certain state and federal funds—such as Title I and LCFF—are used to meet the needs of our students. The SGT complements this work by focusing on broader aspects of school life, including policies, schedules, and overall educational quality. Together, these groups ensure that a wide range of voices help guide the direction of our school. Meeting Minutes
- SDSCPA ARTS | The SDSCPA
40% OF THE SCHOOL DAY IN ARTS CLASSROOMS 7 YEARS OF PROGRESSIVE ARTS TRAINING 15O PERFORMANCE & EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITIES 25 GUEST ARTISTS AND INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS HOSTED ANNUALLY RIGOROUS, PRE-PROFESSIONAL ARTS INSTRUCTION At SDSCPA, we believe learning through the arts transforms lives. Students spend 40% of their day in rigorous, pre-professional arts instruction led by award-winning educators and industry professionals. With programs in music, dance, theatre, design and production, creative writing, and visual media arts, our evolving curriculum fosters creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking while building pathways to higher education and careers in the arts. AUTHENTIC SPACES We are proud to offer dedicated, authentic spaces for artistic creation, from professional theaters and film studios to visual arts galleries and dance studios. These environments reflect the standards of professional artistic practice and inspire students to meet high expectations with discipline and passion. STUDIO HABITS OF MIND Guiding our work is the nationally recognized framework of the Studio Habits of Mind, which cultivates the habits that artists—and innovators—need to thrive. Students learn to develop craft, engage and persist, envision possibilities, express meaning, observe deeply, reflect thoughtfully, stretch and explore, and understand art worlds. These habits are not just artistic tools; they are life skills that foster curiosity, voice, and agency. ACCREDITING COMMISSION FOR COMMUNITY AND PRE-COLLEGIATE ART SCHOOLS (ACCPAS) As we continue to grow and strengthen our arts programs, we are actively pursuing accreditation through the Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools (ACCPAS). This process affirms our commitment to artistic excellence and ensures that our school meets the highest national standards in arts education.
- STUDENT SERVICES | The SDSCPA
STUDENT SERVICES At SDSCPA, we are dedicated to nurturing the whole child, recognizing that every student has unique and diverse needs that support their well-being and success. MENTAL HEALTH HEALTH OFFICE FOOD & NUTRITION COUNSELING COUNSELING At SDSCPA, we guide students and families through academic planning, college and career preparation, and social-emotional support. Our goal is to help every student stay on track and access the resources they need for success. COUNSELING MENTAL HEALTH The mental health and well-being of our students is a top priority at SDSCPA. If you or someone you know needs support, please explore the district and community mental health resources available below. SERVICES SDSCPA's FOOD & NUTRITION SDUSD students have access to a free, healthy breakfast and lunch each school day. It’s all part of the statewide Universal Meals Program. Menus are designed to support student wellness and meet USDA nutrition standards. MENU SDSCPA's HEALTH SERVICES Our Health Office is here to care for your child during the school day, whether they need first aid, help with medications, or health screenings. We also work with families to connect them to district and community health resources for additional support when needed. MENU
- THEATRE | The SDSCPA
THEATRE The SDSCPA Theatre Department views theatre as society’s heartbeat—vibrant and transformative. Students gain passion, craft, and discipline through immersive training, developing communication and problem-solving skills that prepare them for success in theatre, college, and diverse careers. LEARN MORE What sets SDSCPA apart from the rest? ACHIEVE RECOGNITION AND AWARDS Student achievements include Best Production and Best Musical at the Broadway San Diego Awards; participants in the Jimmy Awards in NYC, CETA festival award winner FACULTY Department Co-Chair/Musical Theatre Educator Roxane Carrasco Roxane has been a working professional artist (Actress, Singer, Dancer, Director, Choreographer) for over 40 years and a teaching artist (Acting, Voice, Dance, Musical Theatre, Directing, Audition Coach) for 31 years. Favorite credits as a performer include BROADWAY: Chicago (Velma, Mama Morton) INTERNATIONAL TOURS: Chicago (Velma, Dance Capt), West Side Story (Anita), A Chorus Line (Cassie, Morales) BROADWAY WORKSHOPS: Like Water for Chocolate (Gertrudis), The Poet Matador (Alma) REGIONAL THEATRE: Bad Hombres- Good Wives, Manifest Destinitis, In the Heights, Real Women Have Curves, The Women at the San Diego REP; Dames at Sea(Mona), Fox on the Fairway (Muriel), Moonlight Over Buffalo (Ethel), at North Coast Rep; El Henry (Chiqui), The Who’s Tommy (original cast), Figaro Gets a Divorce (original cast) at the La Jolla Playhouse. Favorite Film and TV credits include - Law and Order SVU, As the World Turns (recurring role), The Lady and the Tiger (Co Director, Choreographer in Shanghai, China), Dozens of music videos for Canum Productions as Director and/or Choreographer. Favorite credits as a Teaching Artist include Broadway Classroom, NYU, SDSU, University of the Arts (Philadelphia), ASU as well as guest lecturing at UCSD, the August Everding Akademie (Munich, Germany) and various institutions across the U.S. and Europe. Roxane has done workshops all around the word that specialize in all things A Chorus Line, Bob Fosse, Jerome Robbins, How to Audition for Musical Theatre, How to learn Choreography Quickly, and How to Teach Musical Theatre for High Schoolers. Roxane has a B.A. in Theatre from UCSD and an M.F.A. in Musical theatre from San Diego State University. Roxane is the proud mother of Lucas and the proud chair of the Theatre Department at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts (SDSCPA) specializing in Musical Theatre. Mail Department Co-Chair/Acting Educator Colette Hopper Colette is an accomplished actor and vocalist in the San Diego community performing at Starlight Bowl and as a guest soloist at the Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. Her achievements embrace cabaret performance, musical theatre, voice-over acting, voice coaching, improv, church soloist, arts educator, and theatrical producing and directing. Colette is currently doing her own one-woman cabaret events each year and is a church soloist. Colette earned her Bachelor’s Degree in performing arts at SDSU and her Master’s Degree in Education from National University. Mail Acting Educator Jason Maddy Jason has a Bachelor of Arts and a Masters of Fine Arts in Acting. He has worked at Theatres and Shakespeare Festivals across the country for over twenty-five years and is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association (Union for Professional Actors and Stage Managers). With over ten years of classroom experience and 20+ years of teaching experience, Jason crafted a pre-conservatory scope and sequence tha makes University and Conservatory concepts and curriculum comprehensible and applicable for a young artist in development. As a lifelong learner in all aspects, he hopes to foster that same curiosity, passion, and drive for every student at SDSCPA. Mail Musical Theatre Educator Rayme Sciaroni Rayme, the Vocal Performance and a Musical Theatre teacher at SCPA. Having lived in NYC for close to 2 decades, he coached singers preparing for Broadway auditions as well as workshopped several musical adventures of his own. Moving to San Diego he continued coaching professional and budding professional performers in the area as well as showcasing his original song writing in a plethora of Cabaret shows throughout San Diego, Los Angeles and New York. He is an award winning director/musical director/choreographer from a long list of musicals throughout San Diego in youth theatre productions, community theatres and professional events. Since being a part of SCPA he has proudly musical directed “A Chorus Line” and has taken on the two hats of directing/musical directing “Legally Blonde”, “Billy Elliot” and “Addams Family” in the Florence Johnson Grand Theatre. His passion for writing songs doesn’t stop there. His first published book was a co-creation of craft making entitled, “Designing with the Divas”. (Bluegrass Publishing) On his own, he wrote his first novel, “Dinner for God” (Publishing Unleashed) that garnered 5 awards in the independent book writing genre. He is currently working on a sequel to this book entitled, “Dessert for God”. Other works he is currently working on are two children’s stories and taking another children’s story by a known author and turning it into a stage musical. Mail Musical Theatre Dance Educator Michelle Camaya Dance has been a fundamental part of Michelle’s life for over 40 years. Technically, academically, professionally and competitively she has studied in ballet, jazz, modern, hip-hop, musical theater, Latin and standard ballroom, Polynesian, and Philippine folk dance. 30+ years have been dedicated as a student, teacher, company dancer, former board member and Vice-President of the non-profit organization, Samahan Filipino American Performing Arts and Education Center, which celebrates their 50 year anniversary in 2024. She is a founding member (dancer and musician) of the Pakaraguian Kulintang Ensemble, which focuses on traditional music and dance from the Southern Philippines. Michelle continues to develop her knowledge of folk arts and culture through field research, dialoguing with colleagues, collaborating with kindred folk dance companies and participation in workshops with master artists and educators. Michelle has had the privilege to share the rich cultural diversity of the Philippine islands with the students at UCSD. She believes that cultural arts is a living and breathing art form and directly corresponds to positive community enhancement. Michelle is well-rounded as a dancer, choreographer, director, hot pilates and yoga instructor. She graduated from the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts and went on to receive her BA in Dance from UC Irvine. While at UC Irvine, she was a member of the late Donald McKayle’s student dance company, Etude Ensemble and hip hop crew Kaba Modern. Being a member of Actor’s Equity Association (AEA) for 26 years, a highlight of her performing arts career has been performing in The Lion King musical over 2,500+ times on Broadway, with the 1st and 2nd National tours & Las Vegas production. Other select professional credits include: Fame (1st National tour), Swing (Broadway National Tour & Japan), Twyla Tharp’s Come Fly Away (BNT & Japan), Evita (SD Rep), Sinatra, Dance With Me (Las Vegas); movies: Enchanted and Memoirs of a Geisha. She was also a dance finalist on Bravo TV's Step It Up & Dance. Mail
- SPECIAL EDUCATION | The SDSCPA
SPECIAL EDUCATION The Special Education Department at SDSCPA provides individualized plans tailored to each student’s needs, ensuring access to resources and accommodations for academic and artistic success. Through collaboration among teachers, parents, and specialists, students with disabilities engage in a rigorous arts-integrated curriculum and participate fully in school life. Our inclusive approach fosters a supportive community that values diversity and empowers every student to thrive and reach their potential. CASE MANAGERS SPED Educator Valerie Cruz I’m passionate about inclusion because I believe all students should feel valued and have the chance to succeed, no matter their abilities. Inclusion creates a space where students can feel safe, supported, and part of the school community. All students should have the opportunity to access the same curriculum. Mail SPED Educator Cody Angeles I truly enjoy advocating for and supporting students and their families so they have the best possible chance to succeed, wherever their creativity or educational path takes them. Working closely with students of all backgrounds and diverse needs, I’ve seen how powerful it is when students begin to believe in themselves. My hope is that by building strong relationships and encouraging self-advocacy, they leave SCPA not only confident in their abilities, but know their voice matters, now and in the future. Mail SPED Educator Araceli Hermosa As an English learner, I experienced firsthand how inclusion accelerated my language development. Being immersed among native speakers challenged and empowered me in ways that isolation never could. This personal journey fuels my deep conviction in the importance of inclusive education for students with disabilities. I advocate for inclusion because I’ve lived its transformative power—and I see that same potential in every student when they are allowed to learn alongside their peers. Mail SPED Educator Tona Reynoso Perez I believe in inclusion because every student deserves to be respected, supported, and given an equal chance to succeed, no matter their background. An inclusive classroom allows students to learn from one another and feel a true sense of belonging. Mail SPED Educator Abigail Sauers Inclusion to me means every student has access to the same content and curriculum across campus. I want every child to feel included, seen, and validated in their classes. ... Mail SPED Educator Daniel Shaw I’m passionate about inclusion because I know what it feels like to be in a classroom where the system wasn’t built with you in mind. Growing up in Claremont, CA, I struggled with an undiagnosed learning disability that shaped both how I learned and how I saw myself. My journey into education—through electronic music, visual art, and improvisational performance—has always centered around helping people find their voice and confidence. After eight years subbing at SCPA, I knew this was the place I wanted to be full time. It’s a school that values every learner as an artist and every artist as a thinker. I’m proud to work alongside a special education team that truly collaborates to make inclusion not just a goal, but a daily practice. Mail SPED Educator Kevin Parker Inclusion can be a loaded word. It doesn’t just mean sitting in the room or being invited to events or simply being “included.” True inclusion would mean that each student is seen, heard, validated, and feels safe within their environments. Students need to have access to their learning, no matter what situation they are dealing with. Mail SPED Educator Andi Frost I believe that it is through uplifting, motivating, inspiring, and supporting students (and educators) that we begin to change the world. It is through taking the time to learn each person’s learning magic and helping them to learn their magic, too, that a positive difference in learning outcomes takes hold. It is through holding students (and adults) accountable for student learning and it is through holding high expectations for each and every student, unwaveringly, that we make our world better. It is with daily evaluation (including informal learning slips/Q & A/student questions/journals/etc) and a consistent feedback loop based on those evaluations, that progress begins. It is through that progress that we change our world. I am an educator because I am passionate about doing my part to positively impact the landscape of our world. By knowing that not any one of us knows the ceiling of another, I continue to seek answers and solutions. Working with kids in helping them to realize how incredibly capable of learning they are, and helping them notice and celebrate purposeful progress is what sets me on fire. Helping students to transcend their expectations and teaching them that what they do makes a difference (efficacy) - and finding questions and opportunities that ignite their desires to know more; to do more; to try harder is my super power. It is my calling. It is why I am an educator. Mail SPED Educator Aspen Shirley-Dancoff I am passionate about inclusion because I believe that everyone has value to add to society. From an education specialist perspective, inclusion means students with 504s or Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) need access to supports or accommodations in order to access being included. The easy answer is to say that providing the supports or accommodations is too difficult, but students with 504s or IEPs are federally entitled to them. Once students have access to what they need to thrive academically, the real excitement begins. Their brains are unlocked and their true intelligence shines. As students learn to value the way their brain works, they also learn to identify what supports or accommodations they may not need any more or others that they may currently need. In collaboration with their case manager, service providers, teachers, and parents, they hone the skill of self-advocacy throughout the IEP and Individualized Transition Plan (ITP) process. Our students then graduate with the building blocks needed to continue to add value to society as adults, and to independently self-advocate for access to society when barriers become present. Mail PARAEDUCATORS Michael Joseph Para Independent Facilitator Rashad Griffin Sr. Para Independent Facilitator Emily Christo Para Independent Facilitator Lamina Bradley Para Independent Facilitator Juan Huhu Para Independent Facilitator Angelica Macias Para Independent Facilitator Jasmin Avina Ramirez Para Independent Facilitator Joshua Cohen Para Independent Facilitator Virginia Duarte Para Independent Facilitator
