Fine Arts Handbook - The First Academy · Shayne Grove – Director of ... The Fine Arts Department will provide every parent and student with a detailed Fine Arts Handbook, ... they

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Fine Arts Handbook

2016-2017

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Fine Arts Handbook

2016-2017

The First Academy

2667 Bruton Blvd.

Orlando, FL 32805

Phone: (407) 206-8600 / Fax: (407) 206-8724

www.thefirstacademy.org

Leadership Team

Senior Staff Steve Whitaker – Head of School

Patrick Barrett – Assistant Head of School for Scholastic Excellence

Brian Rose – Assistant Head of School for Advancement & Spiritual Formation

Jerry Chambers – Chief Financial Officer

Principals Jennifer Jackson – Lower School Principal (grades K4-6)

Luci Higgins – Director of Curriculum & Instruction and Middle School Principal (grades 7-8)

Garry Sullivan – Upper School Principal (9-12)

Sarah Donovan – Extended Educational Programs Principal – The Classical School, The Early Learning

Center, and The First Hope

Administration Will Cohen – Director of Athletics

Tim DeBoom – Director of Human Resources and Operations

Leighann Harris – Director of Finance

Matt Eggert – Director of Technology and Innovation

Shayne Grove – Director of Admissions, Marketing and International Students

http://www.thefirstacademy.org/

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Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 6

SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT ................................................................................................................. 6

THE FOUNDATION OF FINE ARTS AT THE FIRST ACADEMY ........................................................ 6

FINE ARTS MISSION STATEMENT ............................................................................................................. 6 PHILOSOPHY OF THE ARTS ........................................................................................................................ 6 OUR CORE BELIEFS................................................................................................................................... 7 OUR VALUES ............................................................................................................................................ 7 ARTS OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................................... 8

GOD’S HALL OF FAME .............................................................................................................................. 9

PLAN OF SALVATION .............................................................................................................................. 10

FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATIONAL CHART ................................................................. 11

FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT STRUCTURE ................................................................................................... 11

Assistant Head of School for Scholastic Excellence .......................................................................... 11

Upper School Principal ...................................................................................................................... 11

Fine Arts Assistant ............................................................................................................................. 11

Middle School Principal ..................................................................................................................... 11

Lower School Principal ...................................................................................................................... 11

Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment Director ....................................................................... 11

Lower, Middle, and Upper School Fine Arts Teachers ...................................................................... 11

GENERAL FINE ARTS POLICIES .......................................................................................................... 12 AUDITIONS .............................................................................................................................................. 12 FEES FOR COMPETITIONS ........................................................................................................................ 12 AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSAL & ACTIVITIES ........................................................................................... 13

ROYAL FINE ARTS COVENANT ............................................................................................................... 14

Student Commitment.......................................................................................................................... 14

Parent Commitment............................................................................................................................ 15

REHEARSAL TIMES ................................................................................................................................. 16

TRANSPORTATION .................................................................................................................................. 16

MUSIC DEPARTMENT ............................................................................................................................ 18

PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................................. 18

DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS ................................................................................................................. 18

OUTCOMES .............................................................................................................................................. 18 INVOLVEMENT ........................................................................................................................................ 19

PARTICIPATION FEE ................................................................................................................................ 19

PARTICIPANT PROVIDED ITEMS .............................................................................................................. 19 PRIVATE LESSONS................................................................................................................................... 19 COURSES OFFERED ................................................................................................................................. 20

Lower School ..................................................................................................................................... 20

Middle School .................................................................................................................................... 22

Upper School ...................................................................................................................................... 23

THEATRE DEPARTMENT ...................................................................................................................... 25

PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................................. 25

INVOLVEMENT ........................................................................................................................................ 25

AUDITIONING FOR ROLES ....................................................................................................................... 25

APPLYING FOR TECHNICAL POSITIONS ................................................................................................... 26

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SERVICE HOURS ...................................................................................................................................... 26

INTERNATIONAL THESPIAN SOCIETY ..................................................................................................... 26

Becoming a Thespian ......................................................................................................................... 26

Induction Criteria ............................................................................................................................... 26

District and State Festivals ................................................................................................................. 28

Thespian Student Conduct ................................................................................................................. 28

Fine Arts Levels of Discipline ........................................................................................................... 28

Dismissable Offenses ......................................................................................................................... 29

CONFLICT RESOLUTION POLICY ............................................................................................................. 29

PARENT-DIRECTOR RELATIONSHIP ........................................................................................................ 30

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPERVISION ............................................................................................................. 31

PARTICIPATION FEES .............................................................................................................................. 31

PARTICIPANT PROVIDED ITEMS .............................................................................................................. 31

SENIOR SHOWCASE ................................................................................................................................. 31

COURSES OFFERED ................................................................................................................................. 32 Lower School ..................................................................................................................................... 32

Middle School .................................................................................................................................... 32

Upper School ...................................................................................................................................... 32

VISUAL ART DEPARTMENT ................................................................................................................. 34

PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................................. 34

OUTCOMES .............................................................................................................................................. 34

AWARD WINNING PROGRAM .................................................................................................................. 34 NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY ........................................................................................................... 35

COURSES OFFERED ................................................................................................................................. 36 Lower School ..................................................................................................................................... 36

Middle School .................................................................................................................................... 36

Upper School ...................................................................................................................................... 37

BROADCAST MEDIA DEPARTMENT .................................................................................................. 40

PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................................. 40

INVOLVEMENT ........................................................................................................................................ 40

PARTICIPANT PROVIDED ITEMS .............................................................................................................. 40 COURSES OFFERED ................................................................................................................................. 41

Upper School ...................................................................................................................................... 41

EXTRACURRICULAR ARTS OPPORTUNITIES .................................................................................. 42

LOWER SCHOOL ...................................................................................................................................... 42 Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment ...................................................................................... 42

Steel Drums ........................................................................................................................................ 42

Royal Sapphires.................................................................................................................................. 42

Royal Guard ....................................................................................................................................... 43 Evening at the Arts Production .......................................................................................................... 44

MIDDLE SCHOOL .................................................................................................................................... 45 Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment ...................................................................................... 45

Royal Sapphires.................................................................................................................................. 45

Royal Guard ....................................................................................................................................... 45 Theatre Productions............................................................................................................................ 45 Vocal Ensemble.................................................................................................................................. 46

UPPER SCHOOL ....................................................................................................................................... 47 Steel Drums ........................................................................................................................................ 47

Theatre Productions............................................................................................................................ 47

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Royal Sapphires.................................................................................................................................. 47

Royal Guard ....................................................................................................................................... 48

FINE ARTS NETWORK ........................................................................................................................... 49

FINE ARTS FACULTY ............................................................................................................................. 50

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Introduction

School Mission Statement

The First Academy is a Christ-centered, college-preparatory school whose mission is to prepare

children for life as Christian leaders who choose character before career, wisdom beyond

scholarship, service before self, and participation as a way of life.

Fine Arts Mission Statement

The First Academy’s Fine Arts Department supports the mission of the school by “nurturing

students as they explore and create art which reflects the glory of Christ, the ultimate creator.” In

order to realize this mission, we must educate students with a Biblical Worldview and with the

skills and knowledge in their chosen field. Training in a Biblical Worldview is imperative as the

students develop a relationship with Jesus Christ and equip their minds to stand firm, defend

their faith, and influence others. Equally important is to develop the talents in such a way that the

student is able to penetrate the world of arts and entertainment in order to effect change. If we

are to have any impact in the culture-shaping media and entertainment fields, we must equip our

students to this end.

Philosophy of the Arts

The purpose and mission of the Fine Arts Department at The First Academy is to fulfill the

school’s mission through artistic development and expression by implementing Biblical

principles in instruction, setting Godly examples, and fulfilling the role of the Living

Curriculum. The goal for the Fine Arts is to create in the fashion that God created, focusing on

those things that are good and worthy (Ephesians 2:10).

Our Arts instructors will:

Build relationships with art students and parents (rules without relationships build

contempt)

Emphasize that student artists are leaders who will demonstrate strong Christian

character in their artistic endeavors

Embrace the creative process

Pursue creativity and excellence, leading students to reflect God’s creativity and

excellence

Direct with the primary goal of bringing honor and glory to the Lord Jesus

The Fine Arts Department will provide every parent and student with a detailed Fine Arts

Handbook, which can be accessed on The First Academy website.

In accordance with our school’s mission statement, “...participation as a way of life,” students

are encouraged to participate in the arts at The First Academy. All Fine Arts students and

instructors are expected to represent our school and our Lord and Savior in a Christ-like fashion.

In the Fine Arts, our ultimate goal is to be “conformed to the image of Jesus Christ” (Romans

8:29).

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The Arts are an expression of the human response to God’s creation. As such, the Arts build on

the relationships that man has with fellow man, as well as the relationship man has to God and

His creation. The exploration of this relationship is vast.

The Bible says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18). The First

Academy will prayerfully pursue the above vision with a faith that is firm and a hope that

endures.

Fine Arts is a means to an end, not an end in itself, in that Fine Arts represents an aspect of the

educational program, not the main focus of the program. One of the main goals of the Fine Arts

program is that the student becomes a well-rounded individual, striving toward his/her God-

given potential. The Fine Arts program shall provide well-planned and well-balanced

interscholastic activities for as many participants as possible, consistent with available facilities,

personnel and financial support. The Fine Arts program shall be planned so as to present a

minimal amount of interference with the academic program. The Fine Arts program shall

function so as to involve not only the participants, but also the student body and school

community. The Fine Arts program shall provide an opportunity for the loyalty of parents and

friends of the school to be renewed, strengthened, and united.

Our Core Beliefs

The First Academy recognizes Jesus Christ as the supreme creator of all things (Col. 1:16). As

such, there are certain things that are true.

Each student is a unique and special creation of God (Ps. 149:14; Gen. 1:31)

Each student is created by God with unique and special talents (1 Cor. 12:7)

Because of the supremacy of Jesus Christ, our lives and talents are to be used in a

manner that honors and glorifies the Lord (1 Cor. 10:31)

Talents given by God are developmental in nature and require appropriate training by

experienced mentors (Gal. 1:18; Luke 2:42)

God has intended for the arts to provide aesthetic and emotional benefits to mankind (1

Sam. 16:23; Luke 7:31-32)

God has intended the arts to communicate about culture, society, history, and scriptural

truth (Eph. 5:19; Ex. 15)

The arts are a primary form of praise and worship through the work of the Holy Spirit

(Ps. 149:1-5; Ps. 150)

The arts have numerous developmental benefits for the student. Therefore, the Fine

Arts are an integral part of the educational experience of The First Academy

Our Values

Using the arena of Fine Arts to help accomplish the mission of The First Academy. We are here

to help train up our students in the way they should go - Proverbs 22:6. This means that we will

teach from a biblical perspective and strive to be a true reflection of Jesus Christ to our students.

Pursue greatness God’s way, through unity, service, and sacrifice.

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Promote honesty, integrity, humility, loyalty, unity, and encouraging total character

development of our students. These traits are non-negotiable in building a program. This will

include all our directors promoting and encouraging the success of all other programs,

emphasizing the need to share multi-activity students.

Show good craftmanship, respecting others at all times and under every circumstance. This

includes behavior towards directors, instructors, castmates, fellow artists, members of the tech

crew, parents, and other fans. Defiance and disrespect are never tolerated in a disciplined

program.

Create an affirming environment by displaying a positive attitude and providing daily

encouragement to those under our leadership. Our student will respond better when they know

we genuinely love and care for them.

Foster a commitment to excellence. Success in the fine arts is the result of directors and

students going the extra mile. We must communicate great expectations, provide great

instruction, emphasize great fundamentals, and demand great effort. Most importantly,

according to God’s Word, if we want to be great, we must model great servanthood to our

student performers.

Arts Objectives

To provide age-appropriate instruction to all students and to increase proficiency as

students grow as young artists

To offer a variety of experiences in each artistic discipline, including both traditional and

ministerial education opportunities

To develop an appreciation for the arts throughout all grade levels

To assist students in the discovery and development of their unique God-given talents

To develop self-discipline, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in each arts

student

To expose students to the variety of ways that the arts are used in other cultures

To create well-rounded individuals with a passion and respect for the fine and performing

arts

To develop an appreciation for the arts throughout all grade levels

To assist students in the discovery and development of their unique God given talents

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GOD’S HALL OF FAME

Author Unknown

Your name may not appear down here

in this world’s hall of fame,

in fact you may be so unknown

that no one knows your name.

The All Stars here may pass you by

on neon lights of blue,

but if you love and serve the Lord,

then I have good news for you.

This hall of fame is only good

as long as time shall be,

but keep in mind God’s hall of fame

is for eternity.

To have your name inscribed up there

is greater yet by far,

than all the halls of fame down here

and every man-made star.

This crowd on earth may soon forget

the heroes of the past,

they cheer like mad until you fall

and that’s how long you last.

But God, He never does forget

and in His hall of fame,

by just believing in His Son

inscribed you’ll find your name.

I tell you, friend, I wouldn’t trade

my name however small,

that written there beyond the stars

in that celestial hall.

For any famous name on earth

or glory that they share,

I’d rather be an unknown here|

and have my name up there.

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Plan of Salvation

Admit, "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23)

Pray: Lord, I admit that I am a sinner in need of a Savior.

Believe, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in

Him shall not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16)

Pray: Lord, I believe that Jesus died and shed His blood for my sins. I believe this in my

heart and not just my head.

Call, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Romans 10:13)

Pray: Lord, I call upon You to save me from my sins. I confess and repent of my sins. I

know that Your Son, Jesus paid my debt on the cross—a debt I could never pay despite all my

good works—and I thankfully accept Your gift of eternal life in Heaven that His death makes

possible.

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Fine Arts Department Organizational Chart

Patrick Barrett 407-206-8643

Assistant Head of School for Scholastic Excellence

Brian Rose 407-206-8659

Upper School Principal

Cheryl Bynum 407-206-8638

Fine Arts Assistant

Luci Higgins 407-206-8651

Middle School Principal

Jennifer Jackson 407-206-8605

Lower School Principal

Debi Savage 407-206-8681

Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment Coordinator

Assistant Head of School

for Scholastic Excellence

Upper School Principal

Lower School Principal

Middle School Principal

Fine Arts Assistant

Lower School Fine Arts

Teachers

Middle School Fine Arts

Teachers

Upper School Fine Arts

Teachers

Royal Academy of the Arts

& Enrichment

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General Fine Arts Policies

Auditions

In order to produce professional, top-quality shows at The First Academy, auditions are an

essential part of the production process. However, casting shows and determining one piece of

artistic work over another is inherently challenging. To create a positive and fair experience for

all students, the following policies will be followed to ensure the academic integrity of student

development in the Fine Arts program of TFA.

Auditions will be conducted in a professional manner, just the same as in real-world arts

auditions.

Auditions will be done before a committee of 3-5 Fine Arts faculty / staff and or the

Principal’s designee. The committee will make recommendations to the theatre director;

however, the final decision for casting will be in the hands of the theatre director.

No decision of role casting or art selection is debatable. Once the director has announced

casting or art selections, it is the final decision and may not be challenged.

Students are expected to come prepared to an audition. Specific guidelines of what a

student needs to have prepared will be supplied in advance, and students hoping to be

selected are expected to adhere to these expectations and guidelines. (Example: For a

theatre audition, a student may be expected to come prepared with a memorized

monologue.)

Students will be able to ask for specific feedback and critiques following the selection

process to better prepare them for future auditions.

Callbacks will often be utilized to render final casting decisions. Students will be notified

if they have received a callback and should be available to attend the callback audition as

scheduled.

Middle and Upper School: Notifications of those receiving a callback, as well as the final

casting selection, will be posted outside of the Black Box Theatre by 4pm within 48

hours of auditions.

In Lower School, no student is cut from participation in plays/musicals. With the mission

to produce top-quality pieces in Middle and Upper School, it is understood that not all

students who audition or submit an art selection will be chosen for a role. However,

students who are not selected are encouraged to still participate by accepting a stagehand,

technical, or other role deemed fitting by the director.

An audition packet will be distributed for each theater production, including information

specific to each show. Prior to auditioning, students and parents may be asked to sign a

contract in agreement with policies outlined in this handbook, as well as the audition

packet.

Fees for Competitions

Students/Families are responsible for paying all fees that are incurred for district and state

competition. These include but are not limited to registration fees, hotel, transportation,

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and chaperone fees. These fees are subject to change annually and will be published

when such competitions are scheduled.

Students/Families are responsible for providing their own accompanist if one is needed.

Families should note that compensating an accompanist is standard practice. It may also

be necessary to pay travel, hotel, and food stipend for an accompanist who has to travel to

an event.

o Currently, TFA does not employ an accompanist, but when a student/family need

assistance with finding an accompanist, the following charges will be added to

their student’s participation fees:

$25 for MS Competition

$50 for US Competition

$0.40/mile travel expense

$45/day eating expenses

Hotel fees based on standard fees related to where the troupe or group is

staying

After School Rehearsals & Activities

In the Arts, it is often necessary for a student or student group to work after school on projects.

Such opportunities will follow these policies:

No student will be unsupervised. A TFA employee will be present at all times

supervising the rehearsal and/or after schoolwork.

Parents will be notified of the work to be done.

o For larger projects (such as stage presentations), such communication, as much as

possible, will happen at the mandatory parent meeting and at auditions so

everyone has the rehearsal and performance dates in advance.

o For smaller projects, communication needs to happen before the day the work will

be done.

Attendance is mandatory to rehearsals for groups and performances for which a student

has committed. If a student needs to miss a rehearsal for any reason, it needs to be cleared

with the director in advance. Multiple missed rehearsals may result in dismissal from the

group or role, at the discretion of the director.

If a scheduling conflict arises involving another TFA concert, competition, or other

school-related events or activities, the teacher/sponsor will discuss whether

accommodations can be made to allow the student to participate in both events and will

make reasonable efforts to find a solution. If an agreement is not reached in this manner,

the student and parent(s) will decide how to proceed in the best interest of the student.

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Royal Fine Arts Covenant

The Royal Fine Arts Covenant is designed to create a positive Fine Arts experience. At The First

Academy, Fine Arts participation is a privilege afforded to students, not a right, and students are

expected to follow the standards in order to participate. The goal is to build an ideal learning

environment for the student, build credibility and longevity for the directors, and provide a

positive experience for the parents. Complete support of this philosophy is essential in the

success of the role in which Fine Arts plays to the growth of students.

These areas of focus will allow The First Academy to be successful regardless of the outcome of

the performance, while building a strong image that will impact others for the Kingdom. By

striving to reach these goals, the school will also be able to bolster, strengthen, and fulfill the

Mission Statement of The First Academy while providing a Christ-centered model for the

development of the student.

Student Commitment

Attendance

As a student, I will attend and be on time to auditions, rehearsals, performances, and Fine

Arts functions.

As a student, I will contact the director by noon or earlier that day, to notify them if I will

be absent.

Work Ethic

As a student, I will be diligent in preparation, displaying a teachable spirit, and providing

great effort each time I step on and off the stage.

As a student, I will not allow negative situations to affect my attitude, effort, or

demeanor.

As a student I will meet individual and cast deadlines assigned by the director

Conduct/Accountability

As a student, I will demonstrate trust, respect, discipline, humility, and self-control in all

situations working towards Christ-like character on the stage.

As a student, I will refrain from the use of ridicule, harassment, profanity, teasing, or

name-calling.

As a student, I am afforded the privilege to participate in Fine Arts, thus the

responsibility rests on me to adhere to the standards set forth in all student handbooks.

Communication

As a student, I will maintain open avenues of communication with other artists,

musicians, thespians, crew, directors, student leaders and parents, which will help to

build a positive environment.

As a student, I will speak to directors with regards to my performance/handiwork,

whether working on stage or working behind the scenes. These kinds of conversations

will assist me in working towards developing my talent-specific skills, growth, and

maturity in my life skills.

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Leadership

As a student, I understand that Student Leaders will be selected based on character and

leadership ability rather than Fine Arts performance or status.

As a student, I will be responsible to the Band/Visual Arts/Troupe Leadership for my

actions both on and off the stage.

Honor Code

As a student, I understand that participation in the Fine Arts Program is a privilege, not a

right.

To remain a student in good standing, I must uphold the Mission Statement of the school

and conduct myself in accordance with the Student Commitment.

Parent Commitment

Competition

As a parent, I understand and agree that The First Academy Fine Arts Department can be

a competitive environment.

Playing Time

As a parent, I understand and agree that all students may or may not

(exhibit/perform/play a role) in each show.

As a parent, I understand that not all students will have equal

exhibits/performances/roles.

As a parent, I understand and agree that the directors will not discuss

exhibits/performances/roles with parents.

As a parent I agree to support the director and my student in the role assigned and realize

the roles might vary from show to show depending on the needs of the production.

Roles will be earned based on the quality of each individual audition, additional roles

might be assigned based the quality of rehearsal/practice time.

Payment of Fees

As a parent, I understand and agree to pay all Fine Arts fees associated by the published

due date for each season. All participation fees and artist package fees will be billed and

paid through RenWeb and managed through the Finance Office. Fees not paid by

required deadlines will result in the student being removed from participation.

Volunteering

As a parent, I agree to help serve the needs of each production by volunteering to assist

with ticket sales, costumes, set construction, snacks and meals for the cast, and other

areas as needed.

Fundraising

As a parent, I agree not to raise funds or organize other parents to raise funds. I agree to

direct all contributions to the Fine Arts Department through FAN Membership and

individual contributions to FAN.

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Conflict Resolution

As a parent, I will demonstrate Christ-like behavior in resolving conflict. I will follow the

Matthew 18 principle and will not complain, gossip, or criticize those with whom I may

have a disagreement.

As a parent, I agree to abide by the conflict resolution policy found in the Fine Arts

Handbook to resolve all fine arts-related concerns.

Rehearsal Times

Grades 6-8 are not permitted to rehearse before school starts in the morning.

A rehearsal schedule will be established by the director and communicated to all parents

prior to the start of the season.

NO rehearsals or meetings are permitted on Sundays or on days that would conflict with

Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter.

All Wednesday rehearsals will be finished by 5:30 p.m. Grades 7-8 are not permitted to

rehearse on Wednesdays.

When school is canceled due to weather or natural disasters, all rehearsals will be

canceled or postponed.

Transportation

The Fine Arts department does not operate school-owned buses, however, charter buses

will be provided for away events.

When leaving during school hours for an Fine Arts event, it is the director’s

responsibility to arrange proper transportation for the students.

If an Fine Arts event does not require leaving during school hours, the parent will be

responsible for transportation to and from the event.

Transportation of students in student vehicles is highly discouraged. Directors and

parents must understand that if this is done personal insurance is exposed and should not

be done without previous written parental permission.

TFA strongly suggests that directors do not use their personal vehicles for student

transport and prohibits transporting individual students.

During transport, seat belts must be worn and all students must remain seated. Luggage

and equipment must be free of the doors and not blocking the aisles.

Only Fine Arts personnel and students are allowed to use TFA transportation.

While food and drink are permitted on buses, directors and students are responsible for

keeping buses clean and free from trash and debris. Failure to do this will lead to a loss of

this privilege.

Only G or PG rated movies may be watched on Fine Arts trips. Directors should be very

judicious in the selection of a movie to insure it is commensurate with our school’s

mission.

Music that is played should be free from profanity, violence, or suggestive lyrics.

Parents should arrange for pick-up of their children in a timely fashion after

performances and rehearsals.

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Directors may not leave students unsupervised, whether on TFA campus or an away site,

until all students have been picked up.

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Music Department

Purpose

As a medium, music is accessible to everyone. Whether it is our voice, the rhythm of our shoes

upon the pavement, or whistling in the wind, music surrounds us. The music program of The

First Academy seeks to introduce and expand the student’s knowledge of God’s gift of music

and expression by teaching them the fundamentals of music, while instilling in them a level of

confidence in public presentation as we “make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” Additionally, our

students will increase their proficiency and appreciation of this wonderful gift of music, growing

into passionate musicians.

Development of Students

The First Academy has developed a music program that brings praise and honor to the Lord and

provides an opportunity for students to progress in the talents that God has given them.

The First Academy offers opportunities in music at many levels including:

General music classes for every elementary student

Elective instrumental and vocal music classes for grades 6-12

Extra-curricular elementary, middle, and high school choirs/ensembles

After-school elementary and middle school classes through the Royal Academy of Arts

and Enrichment

Steel drum program for students in grades 4-12

Competition at local, state, and regional festivals for individual students, choirs, and band

Student concerts and community performances throughout the year

Chapel performance opportunities

Fine Arts field trips

Music workshops with professional musicians and clinicians

The First Academy music program teaches music through practical application and has created

an environment that helps students grow in the knowledge of God and the Arts.

Outcomes of the Program

The goals of this program are to insure that each student completing the program can:

Understand the meaning and significance of music in God’s world, including lyrical

interpretation and emotion expressed through music

Achieve musical performance on the most skilled level possible

Apply appropriate techniques, both in singing and playing an instrument

Demonstrate the ability to read music

Analyze, describe, and evaluate music

Demonstrate an effective response to music

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These goals are achieved through singing, listening, moving to music, playing rhythm and

melodic instruments, creating, writing, and reading music.

Involvement

As stated above, students have a variety of outlets to participate in music at The First Academy.

In addition to various music classes, students may also choose to get involved in extracurricular

music activities. This includes prestigious audition-only groups. The process to join these groups

will follow the set protocol outlined for auditions (refer to page 9).

Participation Fee

Some activities in the music department may require a fee for participation. Such instances may

include costumes for ensembles, costs for music festivals or competitions, instrument rentals, or

workshops and master classes outside of school hours. If a fee is to be assessed, families will be

notified in advance with the details of such expenses.

Participant Provided Items

Students might be expected to provide their own materials as a participant in one of the music

programs. This may include but is not limited to binders and easily accessible costume pieces.

Private Lessons

Some instructors may offer private lessons in their area of expertise. These are offered directly

by the instructor at a fee determined by the instructor. If a student wishes to take private lessons

to improve in their field of music, they should contact their teacher directly to inquire about the

possibility of private lessons. Private lessons are available for students in grades K-8 through the

Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment (see page 32 for more details).

Please note: private lessons that are not coordinated through the school are done on an individual

basis and are not something that teachers are expected to offer. The First Academy is not

responsible for scheduling private lessons.

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Courses Offered

Lower School

General Music

Instructor: Debi Savage

Students are encouraged to explore their God-given musical talents while learning the basic

objectives of music, which include five conceptual areas: rhythm, melody, harmony, form, and

timbre. Students approach these objectives through a variety of experiences including movement,

speaking, singing, listening, playing, and notation. These experiences unfold through various

forms of learning:

Imitation: teacher-modeled response, performed simultaneously or as an echo

Exploration: the opportunity to alter a musical experience through experimentation

Improvisation: creation of a musical response or idea with or without the element of time

Visualization: the use of graphic or traditional notation leading to musical literacy

Spiritual integrity and excellence within the curriculum are emphasized. In addition, students are

given the opportunity to implement what they are learning through performances in chapel and

programs including the annual All-School Christmas Program and Grandparents Day. Students

are encouraged to develop a lifelong love of music through exploration in the classroom and

participation in performance.

6th

Grade Beginning Band

Instructor: TBD

The 6th grade Beginning Band is still a true beginning band class where all interested students

with and without experience are welcome. All new students are introduced to instruments and

given a personal instrument evaluation by the band director to determine the best instrument for

each student. Once that decision has been made, each student will secure an instrument (usually

through a rental or the school) to begin learning to play. The First Academy uses the latest

technology in creating excitement for young Band students to practice through SmartMusic, an

at-home, easy-to-use computer program for practicing band instruments. Students work hard to

establish a solid foundation in the basics of good musical performance before performing in the

All School Christmas Program, Grandparents Day, and the Spring Concert. There are no

conflicts with sports or extra-curricular activities for beginning band.

6th Grade Steel Drums

Instructor: James McKey

Most of the students have never played steel drums before. Basic musicianship is taught,

including note reading, rhythms, time and key signatures. The class is playing songs within the

first week of school. They also perform at the All School Christmas Program, Evening at the

Arts, and Grandparents Day.

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6th Grade Chorus


Students will learn several musical concepts related to choral singing. The singer will learn to

perform his or her part confidently in a choral setting, establish the ability to blend within a

section, sing with proper tone, and show dynamic control, articulation, focus and pitch. The 6th

grade chorus music will use unison songs and some that have at least two-part harmony.

Depending on the level of motivation and capability of a 6th grade chorus, three-part harmony

may be introduced.

Choral experiences include singing in a choral music ensemble, sight-singing musical notation,

singing music representing diverse cultures and genres, singing with expression and technical

accuracy, performing a repertoire of songs from memory, experiencing music through solo

opportunities, listening and analyzing master vocalist, and evaluating vocal performances.

Students will understand that music is a gift from God, develop knowledge and appreciation of

the performing arts, develop aesthetic judgments and the ability to apply them to artistic works,

use cultural resources of performing arts groups, produce and perform musical works, acquire

knowledge of the materials, media and history of music, understand the diversity of cultural

heritage, and develop a positive feel of self-worth.

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Middle School

7th

& 8th

Grade Intermediate Band

Instructor: TBD

With at least one year of experience, Middle School students combine with the Upper school

band to form the Varsity Band at The First Academy. Students meet during class time throughout

the day (without the older students) so that time is devoted to working on skills needed to further

develop their talent. Students in Intermediate Band continue use of the SmartMusic program and

are strongly encouraged to participate in the Solo and Ensemble Festival. The goal of this class

to further develop the foundation of musical ability and knowledge to begin playing more solos

and smaller ensembles, gaining more confidence and instruction on the finer details of each

student’s individual playing ability. Intermediate Band is a time of great excitement and musical

growth.

7th and 8th grade Steel Drums


This group of students is made up of players who have little to no experience on the pans. The

class starts out with the basics, but moves at fairly quick pace. This class gives the more

experienced players a chance to develop some leadership skills as they help the new pan players.

This class concentrates on the foundations, such as scales and arpeggios, rhythm, note

recognition, and reading. This class is the stepping-stone into the Advanced Steel Band.

MS Advanced Steel Drums


Advanced Steel Drums is primarily made up of 7th and 8th grade students. Each of these

students have been playing pans for at least two years. The Steel Band members devote

themselves to learning songs from all genres: Jazz, Rock, Classical, Pop, Latin, and of course,

Calypso. They have many opportunities to perform during the school year, including

participating in the FMEA Steel Drum Festival in Gainesville.

Chorus

Instructor: Cheryl Bynum

This upper level performance-based vocal ensemble is designed to prepare students to become

vocal stage performers, developing their musical skills to become the complete musician. Studies

include posture, breathing, tone production, vocal diction, and harmonizing, as well as important

music theory concepts such as rhythm, sight singing, and ear training. Participants will develop

their voices based on classical and modern techniques of solo and group singing, along with

incorporation of basic choreography. Additionally, students will do various hands-on projects

throughout the year. This group will participate in a fall or spring concert, depending on semester

taken, as well as other performances throughout the year. Our performers will be exposed to a

variety of music and have the chance to audition for vocal ensembles. This is a semester-long,

mixed-grade level course.

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Upper School

Upper School Steel Drums


This class is comprised of pan players who have been playing for a minimum three years. This

class hones the skills which have been previously learned. This group of students plays at many

events including Marine Corps Birthday Ball, Mango Fun Run for New Missions, the FMEA

Steel Drum Festival in Gainesville, and many school events.

Marching Band

Instructor: TBD

The Royal Marching Band is the premiere instrumental organization that performs at home and

away Varsity Football games, competes in the Florida Marching Band Coalition, participates in

the Florida Band Masters Marching Music Performance Assessment and participates in local

Parades and special events. This ensemble, comprised of 7th

-12th

grade students, has performed

in Chicago, IL, at the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade.

Varsity Band

Instructor: TBD

This year-long, formative class, designed for students ready to build on skills and knowledge

previously acquired in a middle or high school instrumental ensemble, promotes the enjoyment

and appreciation of music through performance of high-quality, intermediate-level wind and

percussion literature. Rehearsals focus on development of critical listening/aural skills,

individual musicianship, instrumental technique, refinement of ensemble skills, and aesthetic

engagement culminating in periodic public performances.

AP Music Theory

Instructor: TBD

A major component of any college music curriculum is a course introducing the first-year

student to musicianship, theory, musical materials, and procedures. Such a course may bear a

variety of titles (Basic Musicianship, Elementary Theory, Harmony and Dictation, Structure of

Music, etc.). It may emphasize one aspect of music, such as harmony; more often, however, it

integrates aspects of melody, harmony, texture, rhythm, form, musical analysis, elementary

composition and, to some extent, history and style. Musicianship skills such as dictation and

other listening skills, sight-singing, and keyboard harmony are considered an important part of

the theory course, although they may be taught as separate classes. The student’s ability to read

and write musical notation is fundamental to such a course. It is also strongly recommended that

the student will have acquired at least basic performance skills in voice or on an instrument. AP

Examination questions emphasize the synthesis of musical knowledge into usable musical

understanding; students must demonstrate an understanding of harmonic progression in the

common practice style.

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Percussion Ensemble

Instructor: TBD

The percussion ensemble class is designed to meet the specific needs of a percussion student.

During the Fall of the year, the class will focus on the development of the drumline and the front

ensemble for the Royal Marching Band. For the remainder of the season, the class will develop

their ensemble skills on various percussion instruments culminating with performances in FBA

Solo and Ensemble events as well as all Royal Concert Band events. This class is open to all

percussion students who have completed one year of beginning band or steel drums. Any other

students interested must demonstrate their interest and ability through an informal audition.

Chorus


This upper level performance-based vocal ensemble is designed to prepare students to become

vocal stage performers, developing their musical skills to become the complete musician. Studies

include posture, breathing, tone production, vocal diction, and harmonizing, as well as important

music theory concepts such as rhythm, sight singing, and ear training. Participants will develop

their voices based on classical and modern techniques of solo and group singing, along with

incorporation of basic choreography. Additionally, students will do various hands-on projects

throughout the year. This group will participate in a fall or spring concert, depending on semester

taken, as well as other performances throughout the year. Our performers will be exposed to a

variety of music and have the chance to audition for vocal ensembles. This is a semester-long,

mixed-grade level course.

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Theatre Department

Purpose

The purpose of The First Academy theatre department is to offer students the opportunity to

discover and develop, with excellence, their God-given talents in the theatrical arts to glorify

Christ and impact the world for Him. The First Academy offers opportunities in theatre at many

levels including:

Extra-curricular elementary, middle, and upper school productions

After-school elementary and middle school workshop classes

Competition at local and state high school theatre and one act festivals

Middle and upper school academic theatrical courses for credit

In-class productions and subject area integration

Chapel performance opportunities

Involvement in drama club

Membership in the Thespian Honor Society (Thespians)

Students desiring preparation for entrance into a college theatre program will experience

diverse theatrical opportunities in a challenging environment presented from a Biblical

worldview.

Involvement

Students of all levels of interest and ability are encouraged to participate in theatre at The First

Academy. Whether serving as an usher for a single performance or as an officer of the school’s

Thespian troupe, many opportunities are available. The following information outlines how a

student initiates involvement in the theatrical arts at The First Academy.

Auditioning for Roles

Auditions for theatrical productions at The First Academy may take many forms. Any of the

following methods may be utilized:

Prepared acting, vocal, or dance excerpts or pieces

Prepared readings

Cold readings

Improvisational scene work

Choreographed dance sequences

Coached vocal work

Interview

Extra-curricular auditions are open to all students within the grade level of a specific production

(Middle School, Upper School, etc.). Students receive at least two weeks notice prior to

auditions for any given production. The audition announcement, or call, will include specifics

regarding audition expectations, time, date, location of audition, roles available, and dates of

performances. Any additional forms or information necessary to audition will also be provided at

this time.

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In situations where the director and audition panel feels equally impressed with the audition

performance of multiple students for a specific role, class seniority will get the first thought.

However, all final decisions regarding casting will be based on a student's actual audition.

Please refer to page 9 for information on audition policies.

Applying for Technical Positions

Students interested in applying for any of the many technical roles for a given production may

submit materials (resume, references and/or portfolio) at any time during the year. Applications

are specifically available and accepted approximately one month prior to the start of any

production. Technical roles are selected based on assessment of the suitability of a student’s

skills or talents for a specific role, attitude, work ethic, and prior experience.

Service Hours

Students participating as volunteers for extracurricular (outside of school hours) technical roles

or service positions in TFA theatre may receive graduation requirement/NHS service hours for

excellent work. Please see your child’s guidance counselor or the theatre director for more

information regarding service hour

International Thespian Society

The society is named for the first actor to step out from the chorus in the Greek theatre, Thespis.

Thespian Troupe 5165 serves as the honors component of TFA’s theatre program. TFA’s

Thespian Troupe 5165 was established in 1994 with the purpose of advancing standards of

excellence and keeping in tradition with the majority of other high schools in the country. The

troupe encourages students to attain a higher degree of mastery of the theatre arts and rewards

those who achieve it with induction into the troupe. Thespians achieving honor ranks receive

recognition of their exemplary accomplishment.

Becoming a Thespian

International Thespian Society provides a Thespian point system to help determine

induction eligibility along with Thespian point record sheets to help track each student’s

points. Only the troupe director and/or troupe sponsor may award points. The troupe

secretary is often responsible for maintaining point records and making them available

for each student’s personal review. Point records are kept at the troupe level. They are not

sent to the National Office.

Troupe directors are to notify students that records of their activities will be maintained

and that honor society induction will be available when all criteria have been met. All

induction requirements must be in writing and provided to all students involved in the

school’s theatre program.

Induction criteria: (From the International Thespian Society)

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Grade at time of induction

Only students in grades nine through twelve (or the international equivalent) may be

inducted into the high school Thespian troupe. Students in grades six through eight must

be inducted into a Junior Thespian troupe.

School enrollment

If a student receives primary academic coursework from a school with an active troupe,

he or she may only be inducted into and receive benefits through that troupe. Troupes

may induct students who attend other schools only when those schools do not have their

own active troupes.

Thespian points

The high school Thespian point system provides the recommended number of points

awarded for a specific assignment. Troupe directors may use their discretion in awarding

points according to the student’s quality of work and cooperation. Quality may include

the caliber of the work done and the educational value of the experience. The troupe

director makes the final decision regarding the awarding of Thespian points. The point

system is available at schooltheatre.org/thespianpointsystem.

Troupes may adopt changes to the point system to meet the unique needs of their theatre

programs and students. Approved changes must be documented in the troupe constitution

and shared with all theatre students.

Thespian point system summary

Inducted Junior Thespians automatically begin their high school careers with half of

the points needed (5 pts) for high school Thespian induction.

One point represents approximately ten hours of excellent work. Use this formula in

awarding points for items not specifically listed in the point system.

To become a Thespian, a student must earn ten points, the equivalent of one hundred

hours of work. Five of those points should be acquired at the school where he or she

is to be inducted.

Induction points should be earned through participation in at least two full-length

productions, or one full-length and two one-acts, or four one-acts.

Induction points should be earned in at least two of the listed categories, for example,

acting and production.

At the troupe director’s discretion, students may earn up to five points toward

induction through participation in community, children’s, middle school, or

professional theatre.

Thespian membership is offered to all students who qualify. No student can be

elected into the troupe, and no student can be denied membership if he or she has

fulfilled all membership requirements.

https://www.schooltheatre.org/membership/manageitstroupe/thespianpointsystem

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Additional criteria

The school or troupe director may adopt additional requirements for induction into ITS.

Attendance, academic performance, behavioral expectations, and community service

projects are examples of criteria that may be considered when determining induction

eligibility. Any changes must be documented in the troupe constitution. Criteria may not

include recommendation or approval by other students.

District and State Festivals

Twice a year the troupe goes to Florida Thespian Events to compete. The first comes in

the fall when the troupe goes to the District competition. If the students receive superior

scores, they become eligible for the State competition in the Spring. Directors and/or

troupe sponsor will give out more information when the time of the event draws nearer.

At the time of publication (2015), schools are permitted to take six (6) superior events to

perform at the state level. If we have more than six (6) events that receive superior scores

at the district level, the events with the highest average score, as awarded by the judges,

will be selected to perform at the state festival. (*this will be amended as the state

changes the requirements for participation at the state level)

Thespian Student Conduct

As members of Troupe 5165, students are high-profile representatives of The First

Academy. Students are expected to act in an appropriate manner. The following

behaviors are inappropriate and will not be tolerated:

Fighting

Profanity

Use, possession, or being under the influence of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs

Rude or disrespectful behavior

Destruction of property

Obscene gestures

Derogatory or degrading comments

Students who exhibit any of the above behaviors or any other inappropriate behavior will

be suspended from Fine Arts activities pending further investigation. The Fine Arts

Director, the director, and the Upper School principal will determine the length of

suspension.

Fine Arts Department Levels of Discipline

1. Verbal warning from The First Academy administration

2. Removal from Fine Arts venue and student may have loss of rehearsal time

3. Banned from attendance at Fine Arts events and student will be suspended for one show

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Dismissible Offenses

Dismissing a student from a cast should be a last resort. The following is an overview of

the philosophy of The First Academy Fine Arts Department on dismissal:

The rationale: We cannot reach or teach students if they are not present. For the

director to decide to dismiss a student student, the director should feel that

keeping the student would destroy the cast or his/her ability to make progress with

the show. The director’s communication with the students and parents should

cover these behaviors.

Behaviors in the range of “dismissible offenses” for the student/student:

Lying, cheating, stealing or aiding another to do so

Drinking alcohol or tobacco usage

Any involvement in illicit drugs

Behavior that causes the director to consider the student an undermining influence

because of repeated examples of poor attitude, attendance, or work habits.

The director may not dismiss a student in violation before the Fine Arts director has been

given detailed information regarding an incident that includes the possibility of dismissal

from the team. It could be that the offense, on the surface, does not seem to rise to the

level of dismissal, but the director has cumulative information regarding the

student/student that puts the student in the category of incorrigible. It could be that the

student’s cumulative attitude and behavior damage the chemistry of the team and the

director’s ability to succeed. The decision to dismiss a student will be determined jointly

by the director, Fine Arts Director, and Upper School Principal.

Conflict Resolution Policy

All theatre related concerns will be resolved internally by the Fine Arts department according to

a process that is rooted in the Matthew 18 principle.

The Five Levels of Fine Arts Conflict Resolution

1. Personal Meeting between Parent and Director

2. Arts Resolution Request

3. Personal Meeting with Fine Arts Director

4. Personal Meeting with High School Principal

5. Arts Appeals Committee

What should a parent do if he / she has a concern to address with a director?

1. Wait at least 24 hours after an audition, rehearsal, or performance.

2. Call or email the director to schedule a convenient time to discuss the situation face to

face. This phone call or email should not be used to resolve the concern. Please notify the

Fine Arts Director if the director does not respond within a business day.

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What should a parent do if a personal meeting with the director does not provide satisfactory

resolution?

1. Submit an Arts Resolution Request online under “Arts Forms & Packets” on the arts

homepage of The First Academy website.

2. The Fine Arts Director will contact the parent within one business day to schedule a

personal meeting.

3. The Fine Arts Director will mediate a personal meeting between the parent and director

to promote resolution of the concern.

What should a parent do if a personal meeting with the Fine Arts Director does not provide

satisfactory resolution?

1. The parent should notify the Fine Arts Director.

2. The Fine Arts Director will contact the parent within one business day to provide a form

that will be submitted to the Fine Arts Appeals Committee, which will have

representation from The First Academy school board, senior staff, and Fine Arts

department. A parent from The First Academy may also be appointed to serve on the

committee.

3. The Fine Arts Appeals Committee will issue final resolution on the matter within one

week.

Supplemental Guidelines for Conflict Resolution

1. Fine Arts concerns must be resolved through personal meetings.

2. Email may NOT be used to express or respond to concerns.

3. Parents must wait at least 24 hours after a performance or rehearsal before contacting a

director to address a concern.

4. Directors must respond to a parent’s request for a meeting within one business day.

Parent-Director Relationship

The parent-director relationship should model a commitment to The First Academy’s Royal Fine

Arts Covenant. Parents have an obligation to understand the expectations that are being placed

on their children as well as the unique role their child will play as a part of the cast and crew.

This begins with clear communication from our directors (please refer to the “General Parent-

Director Communication Guidelines” below for more information).

Students will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives while participating

in the fine arts at The First Academy. It is also important to understand that there may be times

when things do not go the way students or their parents wish. By establishing strong

communication, clearly defined roles, and expectations, parents and directors are better equipped

to support our students and respond appropriately when concerns arise.

Sometimes it can be difficult for parents to accept that their child’s role in a production may

result in limited or no stage time. However, every child plays a critical role in a successful

production. Like parenting, directing can be difficult. It is important for parents to remember that

directors are professionals and make judgment decisions based on what they believe to be the

best for the troupe.

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Administrative Supervision

All Fine Arts events will have a TFA administrator on duty. Duties include, but are not

limited to, providing safe crowd control, contacting appropriate personnel in case of

emergency, securing gate and concession receipts, and dealing with facility issues.

The administrator will assist the Fine Arts Director and staff in keeping spectators off the

stage and the aisles.

After school supervision will be provided only for students who are in attendance of their

respective program’s rehearsal or performance. Students who are not cast or crew will not

be allowed to remain in the rehearsal room, as rehearsals are closed. Unsupervised

students will be directed to the assigned study hall location.

Participation Fees

The TFA theatre program attempts to keep participation fees to a minimum. If a fee is assessed

for participation, students will be made aware of it in the audition information. Fees generally

help to cover the cost of production expenses.


In general, there are some items that the student will be required to provide to participate in any

production. Items such as a personal make-up kit, specific undergarments, tights, and shoes may

be listed as a requirement for participation. Other necessary costume pieces would be easily

acquired or items commonly found in a student’s wardrobe. The list for these items will be

distributed with ample time for students and parents to acquire the items.

Senior Showcase

Begun in the spring of 2015, the Senior Showcase is a time for graduating seniors to display their

craft for the last time at TFA. It is to be held at the end of April or beginning of May. Thespian

Troupe officers who are seniors are to work with the director and Fine Arts director to decide the

format for the show after Thespian District competition. If a play is chosen, all content must be

approved by the director and the Upper School Principal by February 1. Roles will be assigned

to who wish to participate by senior Troupe officers and the director. If a variety of musical

numbers and monologues will be performed, content must be approved by March 1. The Fine

Arts director will work out a rehearsal schedule between the spring production and the Senior

Showcase by March Rehearsals will begin the second week of March. Students who are not

performing but wish to increase their thespian points for induction or holding office, may work

with tech. Parents may bring their “senior boards” or a fine arts portfolio for display on

performance evenings. At the close of each performance, seniors will be recognized.

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Courses Offered

Lower School

6

th Grade Theater


6th

Grade Theater is an introduction to the acting and theater production process with a focus on

collaboration. Students learn how to build a character, how to use their body and voice in

interesting ways, and how to create effective stage movement and design. They learned how to

develop their own material through the use of improvisation, as well as how to work with a

variety of texts, including scripted material, literature, and poetry. Students have many

opportunities to collaborate in both small and large ensembles, as well as working individually.

Middle School

Performing Arts

Instructor: Kyona Levine

The objective of this course is to teach students basic performance skills that will enable them to

develop their creative and performance skills. It is hoped that students will learn to hone their

unique gifts with humble hearts, while learning to appreciate the unique talent and skill of others.

The MS Performing Arts class is specifically designed to explore theater and acting. The

students will engage in solo acting, group performances, movement exercises, and vocal work.

Upper School

Acting I


Acting I teaches students the basics of voice and movement, as well as development of strong

characters through improvisation, script, and character analysis. Memorization of pieces and in-

class performance are required as students develop diction and speech abilities. The course will

focus on enhancing self-awareness and self-confidence, inspiring creative expression, improving

focus and maintaining concentration, enriching communication skills and social interaction, and

developing physical and vocal expression.

Advanced Performance Workshop


The objective of the Advanced Performance Arts course is to give students an accelerated study

of the production process of a theatrical performance. Students will focus on in-depth character

development in their performance of monologues and scenes. The students will focus on

competitive performance skills to help them prepare for the District and State competitions.

Students will also focus on in-depth character development in their performance of monologues

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and scenes. They will write an original monologue and scene. They will learn the production

roles and study the production process of a live theatrical performance.

Musical Theatre


This performance-based vocal ensemble is designed to prepare students to become “triple-threat”

stage performers, focusing on the areas of vocal music, drama, and dance. Participants will

develop their voices based on classical and modern techniques of solo and group singing, along

with incorporation of acting and choreography. Additionally, students will do various hands-on

projects throughout the year. Students will become familiar with a variety of musicals and learn

what it means to truly “perform.” This group will participate in a fall or spring concert,

depending on semester taken, as well as other performances throughout the year. This is a

semester-long, mixed-grade level course.

Speech I


Speech is a course aimed at introducing students to the basic concepts of communication. It aims

to make students better communicators and make them capable of using sound and ethical

rhetoric, and of analyzing other forms of communication for subtle usage of logos, ethos, and

pathos. Speech provides instruction in the fundamentals of formal and informal oral

communication and public speaking. This includes techniques of group discussion, effective

listening, audience analysis, communication styles, body language, motivational techniques,

impromptu speaking, memorization, demonstrative, informative, and persuasive speeches.

34

Visual Art Department

Purpose

There is no greater investment in the lifetime of a student than to help them fulfill all the gifts

and talents with which they have been blessed by God. The very fact they have a desire in these

areas reinforces that they are created in His likeness and that their creativity is part of their

destiny.

We aim to create future adults who are ready to compete in a world that is truly multi-

dimensional. We need a nation filled with creative people who have the imagination and

incentive to lead with ideas that will build the economy of the next generation. Everything we

see, feel, taste, touch, sit on, drive, and communicate with, from the clothes we wear, the utensils

we use, to the programs we run on our computers, is an invention from an artist, engineer, or

some other creative mind. We need to nurture the vital link of creative ability to develop career

potential. It is the job of every parent and teacher to see to it the Arts are not only a major

component in every classroom but are supported in the home as well.

This foundational introduction in the Visual Arts could be the spark that ignites a path of

discovery to our students’ future careers.

The TFA Visual Arts curriculum provides students the opportunities for critical thinking, active

problem solving, and application of persistence, practice, cooperative learning, and creative

graphic expression through hands-on experiences. The student develops a Biblical worldview

through the study and application of visual art. Students come to understand that the Lord is

actively at work in all areas of life. By focusing on the world’s beauty through the eyes of the

Lord, the creator, students are commissioned to demonstrate creativity and harmony. Students

develop a variety of methods and forms of expression for their artistic talents.

Outcomes of the Program

Students are encouraged to use artistic talent to bring beauty into the daily lives of others and to

develop their talents to affect positive change in the world of arts and entertainment. They

explore a variety of art media and thematic content while developing skills in visual memory and

higher-order thinking that can effectively transfer to core academic areas.

Award-Winning Program

Students routinely participate in competitive art exhibits and have won numerous awards,

including ribbons from The Downtown Rotary Street Painting Festival, Winter Park Art Festival,

Windermere Art Festival, and student representation in the Capital’s United States Congressional

Art Competition. A good percentage of our students choose to continue study in visual arts in

college.

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National Art Honor Society

The First Academy established a chapter of the High School National Art Honor Society in 2005.

The NAHS recognizes students with exceptional artistic ability and talent, service to others, and

exemplary character. It is open to students in grades 10-12 who qualify for membership. Every

year, NAHS members choose a major service project and use their talents to inspire and extend

Christ’s love to others through community service.

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Courses Offered

Lower School

Visual Art

Instructor: Ashley Singer

The Lower School Art Program offers students the opportunity to discover the "Master Artist"

and His many creations. The program is developmentally sequenced and seeks to provide a

multifaceted approach to art as a learnable, visual language, integrating creative expression with

artistic perception, art history, and art criticism. Students use a variety of media with emphasis

on a visual expression of individuality, while encouraging creativity, problem solving, and

divergent thinking through sketchbook activities and studio projects. The goal is to help students

cultivate a lifelong love of art as a medium to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas.

6th Grade Art

Instructor: Ashley Singer

Students will explore the art elements and principles of design. They will use a variety of

techniques, skills, and media, including, but not limited to, fiber, weaving, paper mache, plaster

casting, printmaking, acrylic and watercolors, tie dye, oil pastels and pencil. Each lesson will

begin with an overview of its origin and the Biblical history and application. Students will also

explore different artists’ styles and critique a variety of pieces. As they progress, they will apply

their art vocabulary and knowledge to their art criticism and their artistic process.

Middle School

Ceramics

Instructor: Patti Duresky

Students will create works of art in clay utilizing the processes of hand building using clay hand-

building techniques such as pinch pots, coil building, slab construction, drape molds, stamping,

and functional and decorative pottery techniques. Various glazing techniques will also be

explored. This class is designed to give students experiences in making functional as well as

sculptural pieces, using a variety of techniques. Well-thought-out forms, designs and functional

uses along with good craftsmanship are emphasized. Each lesson will begin with an overview of

its origin, along with Biblical history/application. Projects are graded on specific criteria based

on learning objectives outlined in each lesson and self- evaluated with a project specific rubric.

Students are encouraged to be creative and original while maintaining these criteria.

Creative Arts


Building on skills and concepts, this class allows exploration of different mediums and art

techniques while creating two-dimensional and three-dimensional art products. Hands-on

activities provide students an opportunity to practice creative and critical problem solving

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through a variety of art media, techniques and skills including: drawing, painting, weaving, clay

and glazing methods, relief printmaking, metal tooling, watercolor, pastels, graphite, and colored

pencil. Each lesson will begin with an overview of its origin, along with its Biblical

history/application. Students will explore different artists’ styles, with concentration on the

elements of design. Projects are self-evaluated and graded with rubrics, which contain specific

criteria based on the Visual Arts learning objectives outlined in each lesson. Students are

encouraged to be creative and original while maintaining these criteria.

Drawing and Painting


Students will create artwork in mixed media. Throughout this course students will demonstrate

skills through a variety of techniques and media including: design, drawing in 3/D, observational

drawing, one-point perspective, printmaking editions and hand colored prints, tempera,

watercolor and acrylic paint, resist methods, colored pencil, and paper weaving. Each project

assigned facilitates in building an understanding of the properties of light, scale, and proportion.

Projects are graded on specific criteria based rubrics that give direct instruction and require the

student to self-evaluate and critique their work. Students are encouraged to be creative and

original while maintaining these criteria.

Upper School

2D Design

Instructor: Marsha Gegerson

Prerequisites: none

The purpose of the course is to glorify God through creative design. We will acquaint the student

with the principles of design on a flat surface. Students will learn to communicate ideas and

concepts through basic two-dimensional designs and composition and will develop appreciation

of exemplars in varied cultures and historical periods.

3D Design


Prerequisites: none

This course is an introduction to various materials and techniques used to produce art that has

three-dimensional form or form that comes out in space. Students will learn how to make their

art “dimensional” so that it can be seen in the round. They will focus on how to use the visual

principles of design to successfully create art that uses space as its concept. Students will look at

the work of artists who were known for their three-dimensional works. They will be expected to

work hard but will find a new self-confidence as they unlock creativity that God has placed in

them.

Drawing I


Prerequisite: 2D Design or Art I

38

Drawing is a natural means of communication. The purpose of the course is to teach the student

new ways to draw, to explore drawing techniques, and to enable the student to express his/her

thoughts visually by communicating their ideas with symbols and forms. Intermediate level skills

are developed in this class to ready students for Portfolio Honors.

Painting I


Prerequisite: 2D Design or Drawing I

This course expands upon the skills learned in Art I Foundations and Drawing 1 and is offered in

the spring semester only. The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop

intermediate/advanced level, perceptual, observational, and compositional skills necessary to

communicate subject matter, symbols, ideas, and concepts using knowledge of drawing applied

to painting media, processes, and techniques

Portfolio Honors


Prerequisites: 2D Design, Drawing I, Painting I, and teacher approval

This is an ADVANCED class that requires the approval of the instructor. It follows the

Advanced Placement Studio exam curriculum, and students can choose to submit their work for

evaluation. It is only for the experienced art student with unique abilities who is planning career

possibilities in the field of art and design or is seriously interested in art. These students are very

proficient in art media and have participated in at least two art exhibitions, demonstrating that

they already know how to mat and present their work. Students must be self-motivated and able

to work independently, using self-assessment. The instructor is there as the encourager and

facilitator

AP Studio Art


Prerequisites: Portfolio Honors and teacher approval

The AP Studio portfolios are designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical

experience of art. AP Studio Art is not based on written exams; instead, students submit

portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year. The AP Studio Art sets a national standard

for performance in the visual arts that contributes to the significant role the arts play in academic

environments. This College Board program allows students to earn college credit and/or advance

placement while still in high school.

Ceramics I

Instructor: Cynthia Collins

Prerequisites: none

This course teaches the origins and fundamentals of working with clay. Focus is on all aspects of

hand building and glazing. This course will count toward the graduation requirement for Fine

39

Arts.

Ceramics II


Prerequisite: Ceramics I

This course is a continuation of Ceramics I. Students are introduced to more complex building

and glazing techniques and creative expression and originality are stressed. Skills in pottery

wheel throwing are developed.

Ceramics III


Prerequisite: Ceramics I and II

This course is a culmination of Ceramics I and II. Students will work independently using

previously learned hand building and glazing techniques to explore new means of expression

with both. Skills in pottery wheel throwing are perfected. Works completed in this course may be

used toward a College Application Portfolio and/or AP Studio 3D Portfolio.

Ceramics IV


Prerequisite: Ceramics I, II, III

This course is a continuation of Ceramics III. Students will continue to work independently using

previously learned hand building and glazing techniques to explore new means of expression

with both. Skills in pottery wheel throwing are perfected. Works completed in this course may be

used toward a College Application Portfolio, and/or AP Studio 3D Portfolio.

AP Studio Art 3D


Prerequisite: Ceramics I, Ceramics II and either Ceramics III or 3D Design and instructor

approval

This course requires advanced skills and a strong work ethic. Assignments include a combination

of specific design assignments and self-directed projects. Submission of 23 or more works of art

is required for completion of an AP Portfolio. For a detailed description of the course, students

should speak with the instructor.

40

Broadcast Media Department

Purpose

Our desire is to provide the creative and technical foundation to become a positive influence in

the area of media and entertainment. Students will be encouraged to use the talents they have

been given to glorify God. Training will be both professional and practical. Current technology

now affords us the opportunity to provide cutting edge equipment to enhance the learning

experience while preparing our students to develop valuable communication skills.

Involvement

All students are encouraged to become involved in the broadcast media program. There is one

class that is open to entry-level students: Creating in the World of Mac. The production classes

that follow are taken in sequence and with the instructor’s permission. There is an application for

the first production class.


All students are required to bring in their own headphones for use with the computers. There

will also be other small items needed from time to time such as flash drives and DVDs.

41

Courses Offered

Upper School

Creating in the World of Mac

Instructor: Casey Vaughn

Prerequisites: none

A hands-on overview of Mac computers including the various iLife programs (including iMovie,

iPhoto, Garageband, etc) and more that encourage expression through creativity. Students will

create projects while exploring the various programs. This course may be used as an introductory

requirement for students interested in Digital Cinema (formerly called TV Production) courses.

Digital Cinema I

Instructor: Terri Morabito

Prerequisites: Department recommendation, Creating in the World of Mac

Students who have been accepted into the Broadcast Media department will learn basic skills in

editing and create a PSA, Commercial, Claymation, Silent B/W video, and will learn to identify

possible segments and produce basic segments with a clear message. Students will learn basic

camera operation, as well as skills in direction and production of video projects.

Digital Cinema II


Prerequisites: Department recommendation, Digital Cinema I

Students will further develop production skills through more complex editing, using the studio to

tape and include various backgrounds, and will learn to create their own original music and script

to be used in their WTFA (RAW Footage) segments. Students will be able to produce a special

video project and demonstrate leadership skills by providing feedback and creating, planning,

directing and recording a television program. This course will meet graduation requirement for

Fine Arts.

Digital Cinema III


Pre-requisites: Department recommendation, Digital Cinema II

This is the culmination of the Television Production program at The First Academy. The

students must demonstrate an advanced knowledge and ability to independently produce scripts

and video. They demonstrate skills as effective communicators by serving as anchors for the

WTFA (RAW Footage) show and providing effective leadership for the crew. Students are

responsible for the final editing of the show, a special graduation video, and other video projects.

42

Extracurricular Arts Opportunities

Lower School

Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment (RAAE)

The First Academy offers an expanded after school program to include performing and fine arts

classes as well as enrichment classes for students. The Royal Academy of Arts and Enrichment

(RAAE) is an extra-curricular program. This program is implemented to meet the requests of

families and to expand offerings, as well as participation, in the Fine Arts program and other

areas of enrichment.

The Royal Academy of Arts and Enrichment coursers are offered after school on a semester

basis (generally 10-14 weeks) with registration and course fees. Each course includes after-

school, weekly classes, one day per week, approximately 1 hour in length. The course fee covers

all supplies and materials needed, unless otherwise stated in description. Classes begin near the

start of each semester.

The courses offered are dependent on the availability of an instructor. We continually seek

qualified instructors to teach classes. These instructors include teachers and qualified parents or

professionals.

There is a connection between involvement in arts courses and higher academic achievement.

These finding are consistent with decades of research, revealing that studying music and other

arts disciplines improves cognitive abilities that are used in other academic areas such as

mathematics, reading, and science.

Royal Sapphires (Dance Team)

6th

-12th

grade girls

The mission of The Royal Sapphires Dance Team, 6th -12th Grade girls, is to prepare the way of

the Lord for victory, by giving Him glory and honor through the gift of dance. When the

Israelites went into battle, the musicians and dancers went first to sing and dance God's praises.

They praised God for the victory they would soon have over their enemies. God's word plainly

states that we are to use every gift He gives us to worship and praise Him so that we may become

closer to Him and be more like Him. JV (6th-8th) and Varsity (9th-12th) Sapphires are the front

line, leading their peers in worship at Chapel and other ministry times in addition to joining the

spirit at Football games and Pep Rallies. The dance teams also use the gift of dance as a tool to

share the gospel outside TFA walls at places such as Edgewood Children’s Ranch, The House of

Hope.

God calls us to be His family and gives us guidelines for interaction, but He also specifically

directs and warns us of continuing external ministry while impurity is within. Therefore, Royal

Sapphires seek to exalt God in everything we do; behave and dress in a way that portrays

Christian character in their personal lives, as well as while representing The First Academy;

display positive attitude, speech, and behavior, reflecting the fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22); and

43

stay fit not only physically, but spiritually by seeking and maintaining personal relationships to

Christ.

Royal Guard

6th

-12th

grade girls

The Royal Guard, 6th-12th grade girls, works with the Band to represent TFA through the use of

flags. The Standard or Flag-bearer held a position of honor among God’s people, representing

them and what they stood for. The first target of an opposing army was the Flag-bearer, because

as long as the Flag was raised, the people had identity, purpose, and power.

44

Lower School Evening at the Arts Production

Auditions for theatrical productions at The First Academy may take many forms. Any of the

following methods may be utilized:

Prepared acting, vocal or dance excerpts or pieces

Prepared readings

Cold readings

Improvisational scene work

Choreographed dance sequences

Coached vocal work

Interview

EATA auditions are open to all students in 4th

-6th

grades. Students receive at least two weeks’

notice prior to auditions for the production. The audition announcement, or call, will include

specifics regarding audition expectations, time, date, location of audition, roles available and

dates of performances. Any additional forms or information necessary to audition will also be

provided at this time.

Audition Pieces

Auditions will be from the script with a prepared song excerpt from the musical.

Callbacks

Callbacks, if necessary, will be emailed to families of auditioning students as soon as they are

available. Students should initial next to their posted name to indicate they have received notice

and confirm their participation in callbacks.

Once auditions/callbacks are complete, a cast list is posted publicly on the Music Room bulletin

board and the rehearsal process begins.

Fees

There is a participation fee that will help cover production costs such as head shots, scripts, and

production t-shirts.

Parent Meeting and Parent Committees

All parents are asked to commit to working on one of several production committees.

For more information regarding productions, please see page 19 of this handbook.

45

Middle School

Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment (RAAE)

The First Academy offers an expanded after school program to include performing and fine arts

classes, as well as enrichment classes for students. Please refer to the RAAE section on page 32

for further information regarding this program.


6th

-12th

grade girls










Hope.







Christ.

Royal Guard

6th

-12th

grade girls





Theatre Productions

The middle school at The First Academy produces a musical each year. Students have the

opportunity to audition for a role in these shows, whether as a principal role, ensemble role, or

technical role (behind-the-scenes). Rehearsals will take place after school as specified by the

show director. Callbacks will be part of the audition process. For more information regarding

auditions, please refer page 9 of this handbook.

46

Vocal Ensemble

This is an auditioned vocal ensemble for singers who wish to advance in vocal arts. Students

who are selected for this group will have the opportunity to perform for additional events

throughout the year, as well as participate in the semester vocal music concerts. This group is

open for any 7th

or 8th

grade student to audition.

47

Upper School

Steel Drums

TFA’s Steel Drum program has served as a model program in Central Florida and has received

superior ratings at the Florida Music Educators Association’s Steel Drum Festival at UCF since

the festival’s inception in the Spring of 2010. Open to all upper school students, this incredible

offering is available as an extracurricular after school. Royal Steel has played extensively at

school and outside events including professional appearances. This program is led with

excellence by professional percussionist James McKey.

Theatre Productions

The Upper School at The First Academy produces both a play and a musical each year. Students

have the opportunity to audition for a role in these shows, whether as a principal role, ensemble

role, or technical role (behind-the-scenes). Rehearsals will take place after school as specified by

the show director. Callbacks will be part of the audition process. For more information regarding

auditions, please refer to page 19 of this handbook.

Students also have the opportunity to audition for a variety of events for the district thespian

competition in the fall. Before district competition, Upper School students present the one act

and some of the individual and small group events at a Thespian Showcase Event in the Black

Box Theatre.

In the spring, seniors can participate in the Senior Showcase event as a final way to showcase

their God given talents and abilities before graduation.


6th

-12th

grade girls










Hope.






48


Christ.

Royal Guard

6th

-12th

grade girls





49

Fine Arts Network (FAN)

Purpose

The mission of the Fine Arts Network (FAN) is to support our Arts departments and endeavor to

help them flourish. FAN exists to encourage our Fine Arts teachers as they train students to use

their God-given gifts and talents in a world-impacting and God-glorifying way.

Membership in the Fine Arts Network also helps by supplying funds for items that may not be

part of the general budget like state participation expenses, classroom equipment, instruments,

and awards.

Support

Families can support FAN by purchasing season tickets, which include reserved seating for

theatre performances in Upper, Middle, and Lower School, as well as the Spring Concert and the

Christmas Program. Additional reserved seating opportunities will be announced as events are

scheduled. You can also support FAN by making a direct donation to an individual department

that is tax deductible, as well as available for any corporate matching funds.

Your support of FAN allows this work to continue and helps make the dreams of our aspiring

artists, actors, musicians, and producers come true.

Membership

FAN membership information is located on The First Academy’s website:

https://thefirstacademy.org/arts/fine-arts/

50

Fine Arts Faculty

Cheryl Bynum Education

BBA, Music Business, Trevecca Nazarene University

MAT, Teaching Middle School (Grades 5-9), Bellarmine University

Certification: Florida Temporary Educator’s Certification, Social Science 5-9

Courses Taught: MS Chorus, US Chorus, US Musical Theatre, Vocal Ensemble,

Additional Roles: Private Voice Instructor, Assistant to the Fine Arts Department Chair

Teaching Experience: 11 years teaching and directing in vocal music, theatre, and dance;

Additional experience teaching social studies and language arts

Related Experience: member of Legacy!, a professional group of singers, as part of Central

Florida Community Arts; church youth fine arts director, youth choir director, worship leader,

worship team member, production coordinator, youth ministry founder, dance team coach, on-air

radio personality, music industry experience, private voice instructor

Professional Memberships: National Association for Music Education, Florida Music

Educators Association, Florida Vocal Association

Cynthia Collins Education:

BS, Art/Communications, Florida Southern College

BT, Ministry, Florida Christian University

Certification:

Florida Professional Educator’s Certification, General Music K-12

Association of Christian Schools International Certification

Florida Council of Independent Schools Certification

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Certification

Courses Taught: Ceramics I, II, III, IV and AP Studio 3D

Additional Roles: Varsity Royal Sapphires Co-coach, JV Royal Sapphires Co-coach, RAAE

Instructor

Teaching Experience: 18 years

Related Experience: Director of Celebration Ministries Dance Team; Freelance Book and

Graphic illustration, Pottery commissions; Encounter Dance Team Director, Encounter Church

Orlando

Professional Memberships: Florida Art Education Association Member

Patti Duresky Education:

BA, Fine Arts, University of South Florida

MS, Educational Media Design and Technology, Full Sail University

Certification:

Florida Professional Educator’s Certification, Art K-12

Association of Christian Schools International

Courses Taught: Ceramics, Creative Arts, Drawing

Teaching Experience: 21 years of experience including AP Studio Art

51

Related Experience: AP Studio Art Instructor Course, Nova Southeastern University

Professional Memberships: Florida Art Education Association, National Art Education

Association

Marsha Gegerson Education: BA, Fine Arts and Education, Adelphi University

Certification: Florida Professional Educator’s Certification, Art K-12

Courses Taught: 2D Design, 3D Design, Drawing I, Painting I, Portfolio Honors, AP Studio Art

Additional Roles: National Art Honor Society sponsor


Related Experience: Smithsonian Museum, NSDP Exhibit “Trees of Christmas"-1990; Best in

Show, Florida Art Education Association Members Exhibit-2011; Presenter, Florida Art

Educators Conference-2012; Published Paintings in 3 books, Rockport Publishers; Judges

Award, Coral Springs Art Guild-1994; Best in Show, Women in the Visual Arts-1995; Milo

Rudd Memorial Award Gold Coast Watercolor Society-1995; Women on Paper Award, Georgia

Watercolor Society, Open Juried Exhibition; Windsor Newton Award, Palm Beach Watercolor

Society-1997; Best in Show, Palm Beach Watercolor Society-1997

Professional Memberships: Florida Art Education Association; National Art Education

Association, National Collage Society, Society of Experimental Artists, Florida Watercolor

Society, National Watercolor Society

Kyona Levine Education:

BA, English, University of Florida

MFA, Dramatic Writing, New York University

Certification:

Florida Temporary Educator’s Certification


Courses Taught: Advanced Performance Workshop, US Acting I, US Speech I, MS Performing

Arts

Additional Roles: MS & US Theatre Director


Related Experience: Unpublished writer, church drama ministry director, studied acting at the

Harlem Theater Company and the New York School of Film & Television, co-starred in off-

Broadway shows, produced and directed an original play at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater

James McKey Education: AA, Valencia College

Courses Taught: LS Steel Drums, MS Steel Drums, US Steel Drums, 5th

and 5th

Steel Drums

Additional Roles: Percussion Instructor, Drum Line Instructor


Related Experience: fulltime musician at Walt Disney World; employed at First Baptist

Orlando; played drums with artists such as Sissaundra Lewis, Al Denson, Twila Paris, Doug

Pierce, 4Him, Charles Billingsly, Rodrigo Rodriguez, Nichole Nordeman, Tracy McKey and

others; private instructor for over 40 years; appeared on many recordings.

52

Terri Morabito Education: BA, Radio/Television, University of Central Florida

Certification:

Florida Professional Educator’s Certification


Courses Taught: TV Production I, TV Production II, TV Production III


Related Experience: Active involvement at TFA as a parent of two TFA students, awarded a

DV Genius certificate after attending a Final Cut Studio workshop

Professional Memberships: Florida Association of Media Educators, National Association for

Media Literacy Education

Heather Patton Education:

BA, English (6-12), University of North Florida

M. Ed., English Language Arts, University of Central Florida

Certification:

Florida Professional Educator’s Certification, English 6-12 & ESOL


National Board Certification, Adolescence and Young Adulthood/English Language Arts

Courses Taught: 10th

English Honors, 10th

English CP, Substitute Teacher

Additional Roles: Royal Guard/Flag Coordinator


Related Experience: Assistant Director, Terry Parker High School Winterguard; Spruce Creek

High School Colorguard and Winterguard

Debi Savage Education:

BA, Music Performance, Palm Beach Atlantic University

Elementary Education courses, Florida Southern University

Certifications:

Florida Professional Educator’s Certification, General Music K-12


Courses Taught: LS General Music, Royal Choir, Chromatics Ensemble, 6th

grade theater, 6th

grade chorus, LS Evening at the Arts Director, Royal Academy of Arts and Enrichment Director,

LS Fine Arts Coordinator

Teaching Experience: 25 years teaching in Music, Voice & Drama, Elementary, Secondary and

Post-secondary

Related Experience: Traveling Ensemble, Church Choir Director, Worship leader, Worship

Team Member, Private Voice Instructor, FMEA All-State Adjudicator, FVA All-State

Adjudicator, FCIS Accreditation self-study chair, FCIS Evaluation team member

Professional Memberships: Florida Vocal Association, Florida Music Educator’s Association,

Florida Elementary Music Educator’s Association, Educational Theater Association, Association

53

of Christian Schools International, Christians in Theater Arts, National Association of Music

Education

Leslie Scott Education:

Minor in Dance, Louisiana State University

BS, Liberal Studies, University of Central Florida

MS, Exercise Physiology and Wellness, University of Central Florida

Courses Taught: RAAE Dance, JV and Varsity Royal Sapphires, Royal Guard


Related Experience: member of dance teams including Dance Unlimited, LSU Dance Theatre,

Abba Dancers, European Choir Tour and TrancenDance; Director of Aloma Praise Dancers,

Aloma United Methodist Church

Ashley Singer Education:

BS, Hospitality Management, University of Central Florida

MA, Teaching, Art Education, University of Central Florida

Certification:

Florida Professional Educator’s Certification, Art K-12


Courses Taught: KPrep-5th General Visual Arts, 6th Grade 2-D Art, 6th Grade 3-D Art, Royal

Academy for Arts and Enrichment classes

Additional Roles: RAAE Instructor, LS Evening at the Arts Set Designer

Teaching Experience: 3 years in Preschool, Elementary and Secondary Visual Arts

Related Experience: Photography Team, Summit Church; freelance canvas paintings and

murals; freelance couples photography

Michele Smith Education:

BA, Journalism/Broadcast News, University of South Florida

BA, Psychology, University of South Florida

Certification:

Florida Professional Educator’s Certification, Journalism 6-12


Courses Taught: Creating in Mac, Journalism, Yearbook

Additional Roles: Yearbook sponsor


Related Experience: 16 years of on-air television broadcast news: reporter, anchor, weather

anchor and producer at stations including KLAX-TV Alexandria, LA, WBRC-TV Birmingham,

AL, and WKMG-TV Orlando, FL; awards: Associated Press Spot News 1st place, Birmingham,

AL; Associated Press Feature Story 1st place, Orlando, FL

Documents

Fine Arts Handbook - The First Academy · Shayne Grove – Director of ... The Fine Arts Department will provide every parent and student with a detailed Fine Arts Handbook, ... they