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As I write this, the students and school community are surviving
the third quarter stretch. This is, figuratively speaking, the
longest of the four quarters because there are no holidays to
break up these long weeks. In fact, there is only the lure of
Spring Break at the end of the quarter. In typical School of the
Arts fashion, we still have managed to fill every single minute
with arts, academics, and school activities.
On January 26th, I had the pleasure of attending the school's
first ever winder semi-formal dance at the Embassy Suites Hotel.
This occasion was the kick off to our annual Spirit Week celebration
and it was an absolutely perfect event. I hope that it will become
a school tradition.
The "Homecoming" Spirit Week Dance kicked off a highly
innovation and beautifully organized Spirit Week. The Student
Government Association assumed the responsibility for all dress-up
days and school wide spirit activities. I can even say I got into
the "spirit" of things by wearing costumes with our
students and staff. Although I'm not a comedian, people sure did
laugh when they saw me approaching.
Artistically, we are also very busy. Our choral groups are in
rehearsals for upcoming competitions. Many of our visual students
are busy preparing their Cooper Union portfolios. The school's
yearbook staff has finished production of the 400-page publication,
and, of course, all of our art areas are focused on auditions.
On January 28, 2002, I shared the thrill of victory with our
girl's soccer team at the district playoff match against Hallandale
High School. Our girls were superb, defeating the Chargers 3-2
in double overtime. The dedication and commitment of our multi-talented
students who excel in their individual art areas, academics, leadership
in club activities, and community service, and athletics, constantly
amazes me.
As the second semester begins we face two important events. Student
registration procedures and department curriculums are being finalized.
Of course we also have the FCAT ahead of us. Obviously, every
day is filled at the School of the Arts.
With the passing months I have started to feel at home here.
The Dreyfoos School of the Arts community is all encompassing.
I've very much appreciate being part of the "family."
-Ellen VanArsdale
Principal
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