Teachers Impacted: Alexander Estes, Faith Mendoza, Amy Thornton
Grade Levels Impacted: 6th,7th,8th
Students Impacted: 300
Description: A sewing machine for our junior high theatre program will transform how students experience learning, creativity, and collaboration. Instead of relying on pre-made costumes, students will design, construct, and alter their own-taking ownership of the artistic process and gaining pride in their work. This hands-on experience connects imagination with real-world skills, allowing students to see how creativity, math, design, and problem-solving come together to bring characters to life on stage. Working collaboratively, students will learn to measure, plan, and sew costumes that fit both the performer and the story. These projects encourage teamwork, critical thinking, and perseverance as students face design challenges and find creative solutions together. Beyond the stage, students will develop confidence and valuable life skills-patience, precision, and attention to detail-that can inspire future interests in theatre, fashion, or technical arts. The sewing machine will turn costume design from a background task into a meaningful, authentic learning experience. Most importantly, it will give students the joy of seeing their ideas take shape and the pride of saying, "We made that happen.?