OUR SEASON Welcome to our vibrant season of theatre, dance, and creative art! Get ready to be mesmerized by the creativity and talent of our students as they bring stories to life through captivating performances, expressive movements, dynamic writing, and stunning visual art. Join us in celebrating the power of the arts to inspire, provoke thought, and ignite imagination. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the scene, we promise an unforgettable journey through the magic of theatre, the beauty of dance, and the depth of artistic expression. Welcome to a season filled with creativity, passion, and endless possibilities! BUY TICKETS ONLINE THE WIZ A TRIBUTE TO PEGGY LEE NEXT LEVEL: HS DANCE CONCERT THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL CIRCUS OF DREAMS ELEVATE: MS DANCE CONCERT 12 ANGRY JURORS HAIRSPRAY

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

SCIENCE The SCPA Science Department envisions setting the standard for a rigorous, arts-integrated curriculum that shapes compassionate, scientifically literate global citizens. Our mission is to provide an accessible and challenging NGSS-aligned curriculum that emphasizes science and engineering practices within a collaborative, supportive environment. Through this approach, we aim to cultivate independent thinkers equipped with the skills to engage thoughtfully and responsibly in a global society. FACULTY Becky Babbey Science Educator Mail Nicole Ireland Science Educator Mail Sara Morrison Science Educator Mail Will Carter Science Educator Mail Shira Cohen Science Educator Mail Bruce Granick Science Educator Mail Craig Russell Science Educator Mail

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 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

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

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 Pe rform 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, [Your Name] 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 "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

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.

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.

VISUAL & MEDIA ARTS The SDSCPA Visual & Media Arts Department blends traditional skills with innovative techniques, inspiring creativity, risk-taking, and problem-solving. Students master foundations, develop unique voices, and prepare for higher education and artistic careers while igniting a lifelong passion for art. LEARN MORE What sets SDSCPA apart from the rest? EXPLORE AND DEVELOP IN BOTH FINE AND DIGITAL ARTS Build distinctive portfolios through a foundation in drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, illustration, graphic design, film, photography, art history, and 3D ceramics. FACULTY Fine Arts Educator Seana Choi High-energy with experience instructing kindergarten through graduate-level students. Special ability to capture and retain students’ attention with enthusiasm. Particularly well-versed in adapting curriculum to fit diverse requirements and student populations by customizing lesson plans to match group and individual needs. Mail Media Arts Educator Theo Davies Theo Davies was born, raised and educated in England and relocated to San Diego in 2009, where he now lives with his wife and two sons. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, Film and Drama from the University of Reading in the UK, and a Diploma from the New York Film Academy in London. Theo is a screenwriter, director, producer and Professor of Cinema. Theo was Head of Film Production at Platt College, San Diego between August 2018 and June 2023, when it closed its doors after 43 years. At Platt, Theo taught screenwriting, film production, advanced film production and the film portfolio class. Theo has 23 years’ experience working in the film industry in both London and Los Angeles, working on multiple studio features and dramas for the BBC, ITV and the History Channel. In the last 10 years, Theo has been hired to write 5 feature film scripts and one TV Pilot. Two have been optioned and two are about to go the American Film Market in November. The fifth is 'Wish Man', a biographical drama about the man who created the Make-A-Wish foundation. 'Wish Man' was released theatrically in 15 states in June 2019 and was picked up by Netflix in December 2019, where it streamed for 18 months. It's still streaming on Amazon, Peacock, Apple and a dozen other platforms. It was also sold to 15 territories worldwide. On three occasions to date, Theo has been invited to be a Guest Speaker at UCSD for the American Business students, where he lectures on the subject of ‘Business in Film – Financing, Budgeting and Distribution’. He was also selected as an industry mentor for the Big Apple Film Festival (BAFF), where he has mentored hundreds of aspiring screenwriters on the subject of ‘Selling or Optioning Your First Screenplay’. Theo is also the Founder of the Southern California Screenplay Competition, which is now one of the top online screenplay competitions in the world. Theo has been Head of Cinematic Arts at the San Diego School of Creative & Performing Arts since January 2024. Mail Fine Arts Educator Daniel Gonzalez-Zarzuela Daniel received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the San Francisco Art Institute and his Dual Language Teaching Credential from San Diego State University. Daniel is a trained and seasoned art teacher who has worked with students of all ages and skill levels. Daniel is specialized in printmaking and painting but has experience teaching painting, drawing, and graphic arts. Daniel is an experienced printmaker and painter. He has honed his craft in various print shops and binderies. He has been producing and showing his work between San Diego, San Francisco and Scotland. Daniel's interests include creating and collaborating with fellow artists. Daniel plans to bring to the SDSCPA his dedication to arts education and his love of creating. He will also bring a unique bicultural perspective to teaching and the classroom. Mail Fine Arts Educator Terisa James Terisa James is a passionate and enthusiastic art educator with a deep commitment to fostering creativity and lifelong learning. She holds a B.A. in Visual and Performing Arts with an emphasis on Arts and Technology from California State University San Marcos. She also earned a credential in Art and a M.A. Ed. with an emphasis on Educational Technology. Shortly after graduation, Terisa’s professional journey began as a graphic designer, where she learned to navigate creative work flow, design as industry and the business of art. After several years as a graphic designer, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish art businesses, including custom ceramic tile design, hand-tooled and painted leather accessories, and vintage and up-cycled fashion boutiques. Before transitioning to teaching, Terisa devoted years to arts enrichment education and community volunteer work, teaching drawing, painting, crafts, and ceramics. These experiences deepened her commitment to guiding students in exploring their creative potential, finding innovative solutions, and embracing the arts as a vital part of lifelong learning. Terisa is dedicated to championing the arts, inspiring the next generation of artists to reach their highest creative potential, and finding joy and meaning in the artistic process. Mail Visual & Media Arts Educator Don Masse Don Masse is an artist and educator that has been based in San Diego since 2001. At SDSCPA, Don teachers Mulitmedia Design to students 6-8 and Foundations of Visual Art and Design to 9th graders. Don earned his BFA in Studio Art from Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, PA and his MFA in Studio Art from LSU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After moving to San Diego, he earned his teaching credential from SDSU and recently earned a CCTE credential in Arts, Media, and Entertainment. Don works in a variety of materials and approaches as a professional artist- charcoal drawing, digital illustration, large scale public chalk drawings, and public artworks on walls of buildings around San Diego. This range of work and approach is something that he emphasizes to students as they grow as creatives- that they should be flexible and capable of approaching projects in a variety of ways in order to meet the needs of a wide scope of possible clients. Don has a passion for public artwork because he believes that art experiences should be open to all and not only restricted to the walls inside museums and galleries. In line with this, he has collaborated with numerous muralists in San Diego to bring their work on to the campuses of San Diego Unified Schools. He has also developed and coordinated learning opportunities for school communities on mural making to enhance their campuses and to bring their communities together. Don is also committed to continually growing as an artist and educator. He attends and presents at art education conferences locally, regionally, and nationally. He has served as the keynote speaker and guest artist at teacher conferences in Los Angeles, Cincinnati, Wisconsin, and Tennessee. He regularly presents for the Art of Education University on a variety of art education topics as well. He always leaves these experiences with new ideas that enhance and improve his ever evolving approaches to teaching. Don aims to provide a rigorous, welcoming learning environment for students in his courses. He incorporates the work of a diverse range of contemporary creatives in his curriculum because he wants all students to feel seen and loved in his curriculum. He also does this because he believes it is important for students to see how current creatives are applying concepts being learned in class to current professional situations, so students better understand the relevance of their course material. Don regularly seeks out exhibit opportunities beyond school spaces, in physical spaces and in publications, for students as he believes these experiences in the real world lift our students up in meaningful, lasting ways. Mail Visual & Media Arts Educator Nicholas Patton Nicholas Patton is a San Diego-based artist, graphic designer, illustrator and teacher working with students in grades 8-12 at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. Nicholas has developed a passion for printmaking, digital media and traditional fine arts through professional endeavors. With a Bachelor’s of Arts in Art Studio and a Teaching Credential from Humboldt State University, he earned a CCTE Credential in Arts, Media and Entertainment. A focus of Nicholas’s work has been introducing students to the vast array of college and career opportunities available to them in the arts through bringing professionals and their experience into the classroom. He has partnered and collaborated with the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Mingei Museum, AIGA and San Diego Repertory Theatre while planning on-campus portfolio review opportunities for students with schools such as Art Center, LCAD, CalArts, RISD, MICA, SFAI, Parsons, Cooper Union and many more. He participated in the first CCTE educator’s instruction of NuVu Studio design curriculum to summer school students from across the district, in addition to hosting his own animation, visual effects and motion graphics summer intensive. Nicholas is actively building upon that curriculum and will soon begin offering new opportunities for 3D animation, VFX and game design to SDSCPA students. Mail Media Arts Educator Lori Sokolowski Lori Sokolowski is an innovative educator and creator who believes in the power of artistic expression to spark curiosity, creativity, and connection. With a BFA in Photography, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and an Advanced Certificate in Instructional Design, she brings both artistic expertise and instructional knowledge to her work. Her teaching philosophy centers on student choice, intention, and process, while incorporating Universal Design for Learning to ensure accessibility, equity, and relevance for all learners. Before joining SDSCPA, Lori developed media arts integration across the San Diego Unified School District, taught high school photography in San Marcos, and worked in museum education at the Museum of Photographic Arts. She is passionate about integrating the arts and technology to prepare students with the skills and literacies of today and the future. Mail Visual & Media Arts Educator Aaron Kurt Catacutan Aaron Kurt is a proud alum of the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts and currently serves as one of the school's Visual Arts instructors. Following graduation from SDSCPA, Aaron earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration from California State University, Fullerton with a focused emphasis on digital narrative illustration and concept art. With a strong foundation in both fine arts and digital media, Aaron has built a robust career in the creative industry. Aaron has gained substantial experience as a professional artist through a range of freelance, contract, and in-house positions with independent and AA game development studios. His professional work remains ongoing, allowing him to bring current, real-world insight into the classroom. He later earned two teaching credentials: a Career Technical Education (CTE) credential in Arts, Media, and Entertainment, and a Single Subject Credential in Visual Art from San Diego State University. Passionate about preparing students for creative careers, Aaron is committed to equipping the next generation of artists with the technical and conceptual skills needed to thrive in today's highly competitive and ever evolving creative economy. As an SDSCPA graduate, he brings a deep understanding of the school's unique culture and student perspective making his teaching authentic and purpose driven. Mail Visual & Media Arts Educator Julia Reyes Julia Reyes is excited to join SDSCPA as the new 6th and 7th grade Visual Art teacher. Originally from Mexico City, she moved to the United States at the age of 14. Her passion for teaching began during her high school years, inspired by the positive impact of her own educators and her commitment to helping students learn and thrive—regardless of background. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Arts and Sciences, along with a Single Subject Teaching Credential in Art, from San Diego State University. Julia works with a wide range of art materials and mediums and is dedicated to continually growing both as an artist and as an educator. In her classroom, she creates a positive, inclusive, and creative environment where all students are encouraged to express themselves. By incorporating diverse art forms, crafts, and cultural perspectives, Julia helps students explore and discover their creative voices. Her goal is to guide and support each student on their artistic journey and to help them grow not only as artists, but also as confident, thoughtful individuals. Mail Visual & Media Arts Educator Sara Morrison Sara Morrison is a passionate STEAM educator dedicated to fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in young learners. A native of San Diego, she brings a deep commitment to her local community and a belief in the transformative power of education grounded in compassion, innovation, and real-world relevance. Over the course of her teaching career, Sara has developed and implemented project-based learning experiences that integrate science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics — creating a dynamic learning environment where students engage hands-on, collaborate, and apply knowledge to meaningful challenges. Believing that every child has unique strengths and potential, Sara emphasizes inclusive teaching practices that honor diverse backgrounds and learning styles. Her classrooms are designed to be safe, supportive spaces where students feel empowered to take risks, ask questions, and grow both academically and personally. Beyond curriculum and standards, Sara strives to instill in her students a sense of responsibility, creativity, and lifelong learning. By weaving compassion-centered pedagogy with rigorous STEAM instruction, she inspires the next generation of thinkers, makers, and community leaders. Whether designing a robotics challenge, leading a collaborative art-science project, or mentoring a student through a complex design task, Sara is dedicated to shaping a learning experience that’s as engaging as it is empowering — rooted in community, purpose, and limitless possibility. Mail

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical education in the San Diego Unified School District is essential to a balanced education, fostering cognitive, social, and physical growth. It is guided by California’s Physical Education Model Content Standards, which establish grade-level expectations and affirm physical education as an academic discipline. These standards, alongside the California Physical Education Framework, ensure students not only engage in physical activity but also build a deep understanding of health and fitness, developing the skills and confidence for lifelong physical activity. The ultimate goal is to nurture well-rounded individuals prepared to enjoy active, healthy lives. FACULTY Christian Lumba PE Educator Mail Jenn Ravikumar Department Chair Mail Laszlo Gyori PE Educator Mail

DANCE SDSCPA Dance fosters an inclusive and supportive environment for top-tier dance training. Our rigorous curriculum emphasizes classical ballet and modern dance, while offering all students, regardless of level, the chance to train and perform with industry professionals, nurturing both their artistry and technical excellence. LEARN MORE What sets SDSCPA apart from the rest? ALL STUDENTS ARE WELCOMED Be welcomed into into a program that lifts students from all backgrounds to successfully complete a dance capstone and be college and conservatory ready regardless of former dance training. FACULTY Department Chair Annette Barcelona Annette Barcelona is the Dance Department Chair at SDSCPA. She earned an MFA degree from The Florida State University's School of Dance where she received the 2015-2016 Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award. She received her BFA in Dance Education from Brenau University, in Gainesville, GA, where she was awarded the Carol Smiarowski Memorial Dance Scholarship recognizing both artistic and academic excellence. While at Brenau, she completed her Teaching Licensure in Dance Education K-12 and holds a California Single-Subject Teaching Credential in Physical Education/Dance. She holds a California College Career & Technical Credential (CCTE) in Arts, Media and Entertainment and Fashion & Interior Design. Annette is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 7 of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. She is a Certified Balanced Body University Pilates Instructor and Progressing Ballet Technique Instructor. Originally from Michigan, Annette received early ballet training from Therese Bullard (Royal Winnipeg Ballet) at The Bullard School of Ballet and later with Carol Radovic (Vaganova Academy) at CAS Ballet Theatre. She has trained in various ballet styles including, Royal Academy of Dance, Vaganova, Cecchetti and Balanchine (Suzanne Farrell). Barcelona attended numerous intensive programs including The Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Vail, The Kirov Academy of Ballet, and The Eglevsky Ballet. She was also accepted into The Boston Ballet School's year round program. Annette's performing career began at a young age touring with The Kalamazoo Ballet Company. She attended and performed as a company member for multiple Regional Dance America Festivals where she earned a full scholarship to the Craft of Choreography Conference at The University of Iowa. She has danced professionally as a principal dancer with Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre and The Gainesville Ballet Company performing leading roles in numerous full-length ballets including The Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland and A Midsummer Nights Dream. She has been priviledged to perform works by George Balanchine, Marius Patipa, Anna Sokolow, Marina Leonova, August Tye, Luba Gulyaeva, Anjali Austin (Dance Theatre of Harlem), Anthony Morgan (Martha Graham Company), and Rick McCullough (Nederlands Dance Theatre.) Annette travels nationally for master classes and choreographic commissions for ballet studios, regional companies, universities, and schools. She was a finalist award recipient at The 2018 McCallum Theatre Choreography Festival. Her choreography has been presented at The Regional Dance America Pacific Festival, American College Dance Association Conference, The Regional High School Dance Festival and The Arts School Network Conference. She has choreographed numerous shorter works in addition to two full-length ballet productions, Cinderella and Snow White. Her recent choreography has been performed by Ballet Yuma, North Coast Ballet California, The Tallahassee Ballet, Company Etudes Youth Ballet, The Gainesville Ballet Company, Brenau University, Florida State University and dancers from The San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. Mail Dance Educator Annie Boyer Annie Boyer graduated cum laude from The Boston Conservatory with a BFA in Dance in 2001. She earned her Single-Subject Teaching Credential in Physical Education from National University in 2019, and holds a California College Career & Technical Credential (CCTE) in Arts, Media and Entertainment. Annie is also an ABT® Certified Teacher, having successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 5 of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. Growing up in Maryland, Annie was awarded early-release from high school to attend a pre-professional ballet program. She supplemented her training with workshops and summer intensives with Houston Ballet, BalletMet in Columbus, Ohio, and Suzanne Farrell at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. After graduating high school, she attended the summer intensive at the internationally acclaimed school at Jacob’s Pillow in the Berkshires, and it was then that she first fell in love with modern dance. At The Boston Conservatory, Annie continued her training in both ballet and modern, studying the techniques of Martha Graham, José Limón, and Paul Taylor. She also trained each summer during college with choreographer Seán Curran, formerly of Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company. After college, Annie spent seven years as a company member with Seán Curran Company, performing in New York City and touring throughout the United States. Additionally, she performed with The Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Opera. Annie then moved across the country and joined Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater. She performed with the company from 2007 to 2018, and worked with renowned choreographers such as Monica Bill-Barnes, Gabe Masson, Greg Sample, and Gina Bolles Sorenson and Kyle Sorenson of somebodies dance theater. Throughout Annie’s professional performing career she taught dance to university students around the country, most notably at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, as well as other professional dancers. While living in New York, she taught dance to children, preschoolers and elementary age dancers in private dance studios. Later on, living in San Diego, she and her wife co-founded and directed DANCE FIERCE, an after school program for middle and high school students, in affiliation with San Diego Dance Theater (SDDT) from 2010 to 2013. Lastly, Annie has also been teaching dance as a Guest Artist for over a decade at schools all over San Diego, including Canyon Crest Academy in Carmel Valley, Coronado High School and Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA), and others, and she conducted her student teaching at Creative Performing Media Arts Middle School (CPMA). Mail Dance Educator Jessica Curiel Jessica Curiel is a dancer, choreographer, and faculty member at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. She began her dance training at O’Farrell SCPA at age 10 and followed SDSCPA to the Dusk Drive campus in its inaugural year. She continued her dance education in college, graduating with university and department honors from the University of California, San Diego with a double major in Dance and Ethnic Studies. Her collegiate awards include the Stuart Award for choreography and the Leandra Smith Award for excellence as a dancer, dance educator, and choreographer. Ms. Curiel graduated Magna Cum Laude from National University with a teaching credential and Master’s of Education in Cross Cultural Curriculum. Ms. Curiel’s dance training includes a year of independent study at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater School (Graham and Horton modern dance techniques, ballet, yoga, Pilates, and jazz dance), over 25 years of study with Jean Isaacs (Graham/Limon based technique), Teacher Training Intensives at the Martha Graham School in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2023, and the Teacher Training Intensive in 2022 with the José Limón Foundation. Ms. Curiel’s performing career includes performing works on the professional stage by Monica Bill Barnes & Company, Jean Isaacs, Lavina Rich, and others. In addition, Ms. Curiel has appeared in several dance festivals such as Trolley Dances, Live Arts Fest, and Art Power’s WOW (WithOut Walls) Festival. Ms. Curiel's choreographic work has appeared on the SDSCPA stage and the stages of many schools in San Diego County, at the Young Choreographer’s Contest and Prize, and at Liberty Station’s First Friday Artwalk. For her efforts in bridging SDSCPA with the professional dance community, Ms. Curiel was awarded the Visual and Performing Arts Spotlight Award for Community Engagement in 2018. She has, also, earned two Visual and Performing Arts Foundation Enhancement Grants in 2019 and 2021, which were used to fund guest artist experiences for SDSCPA dance majors. Ms. Curiel has been influential in developing a dance education curriculum that provides SDSCPA Dance Majors with conservatory training, performance opportunities, and professional skills that support success in the students’ postsecondary experiences and dance careers. Ms. Curiel is enthusiastic about continuing to refine the SDSCPA Dance Program’s curriculum, producing the extra curricular performance season, and, of course, working with the amazing SDSCPA Dance Majors! When Ms. Curiel is not dancing or teaching, she enjoys traveling, hiking, going to the beach, laughing with friends and family, and practicing yoga. Mail

SOCIAL SCIENCE The History Department at SDSCPA cultivates informed, analytical students who value both scholarship and artistic expression. Through an arts-integrated, rigorous curriculum, we build historical thinking, cultural understanding, and global awareness. Our mission is to foster critical inquiry, ethical awareness, and intellectual growth—preparing students for college and civic life as thoughtful historians who interpret the past to shape the future. FACULTY Danny Blas Mail Co-Department Chair Michelle Fields Mail Co-Department Chair Amir Harrison Mail Social Science Educator Nicole Walker Mail Social Science Educator Tyler Sharp Social Science Educator Mail Andrea Padilla Social Science Educator Mail