The Suffolk Public Schools Department of Fine and Performing Arts proudly recognizes the success of the Elementary Theatre Enrichment Camp, held on March 1, 2025, at Creekside Elementary School. This dynamic program provided elementary students with an engaging opportunity to explore the world of theatre, fostering creativity, collaboration, and confidence in young learners.
Throughout the day, students participated in a variety of theatrical activities designed to develop their performance skills and self-expression. They explored improvisation, storytelling, confidence-building games, and puppetry, learning essential techniques that encourage creativity and stage presence. As a special takeaway, each student crafted their own sock puppet to bring home, reinforcing their newfound skills in storytelling and character creation.
The camp was initially created by Aline Millette, Theatre Teacher at King's Fork High School, and this year’s event was facilitated by Joy Vernon (John Yeates Middle School), Ema Lane (Mack Benn Elementary), Jamie Hockaday (Creekside Elementary), Evelyn Darrah (Booker T. Washington Elementary), and Chris Stadler (King’s Fork High School). Their leadership and dedication to arts education made this an inspiring and enriching experience for students.
Additionally, student volunteers from King’s Fork High School played a key role in mentoring participants, demonstrating the power of collaboration and mentorship in the arts. Their involvement not only enhanced the experience for younger students but also reinforced the importance of leadership and service through the arts.
A special thank you goes to Jamie Hockaday and Creekside Elementary Principal Jill Paraska for hosting the event and ensuring that all preparations were in place for a seamless and successful day. Their support, along with the contributions of administrators across the district, made this camp an impactful experience for young learners.
Dr. Joleen Neighbours, Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator for Suffolk Public Schools, expressed her excitement about the program’s success and the future of the district’s arts programs:
“I am incredibly proud of the teachers who took the initiative to make this camp a reality. They are true leaders in the arts, and their dedication to providing students with meaningful experiences is inspiring. This program is just one example of the bright and glorious future I see for fine and performing arts in Suffolk Public Schools. We are committed to fostering a thriving arts community, and because of educators like these, our students will continue to flourish.”
Following the success of this event, the Department of Fine and Performing Arts is actively working to expand arts enrichment opportunities for students across all grade levels. Plans are already underway to develop more workshops, camps, and specialized programs that will further enhance students’ access to theatre, music, visual arts, and dance. These initiatives align with the district’s commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to explore and grow through the arts.
For more information on Suffolk Public Schools’ fine and performing arts programs or upcoming enrichment opportunities, please contact Dr. Joleen Neighbours, Coordinator of Fine and Performing Arts at joleenneighbours@spsk12.net or 757-925-6750.
