Perkins Plans Youth Theater Program

Two Perkins Local Schools educators, each with an affinity for the arts, have proposed creating a youth theater program for students in Grades 3 to 8. 

The idea was presented to the Perkins Local Schools Board of Education on Wednesday, February 12, by Furry Elementary teacher Pamela Shirtz and Furry-Meadowlawn Assistant Principal Dwayne Arnold. Mrs. Shirtz assists with the Perkins High School Drama Club productions, as well as with local community theater programs. Mr. Arnold has performed and produced in multiple community theater productions.

A drama program for younger students would complement the many athletic programs already available to younger students, Mrs. Shirtz said.

“We want to make sure there is something for everyone here at Perkins,” Mrs. Shirtz said.

A youth theater program will expose more children to the arts and inspire creativity and confidence within children who participate, Mrs. Shirtz and Mr. Arnold told the Board. Participants will work in a collaborative problem-solving environment and the program will teach and foster empathy, kindness, and familiarity with diverse populations and cultures.

Several members of the Perkins High School Drama Club attended the Board meeting and spoke in favor of the program. PHS junior Chloe Raab, who plays Lucy in the upcoming musical  “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown,” said the program would help children with their confidence and public speaking.

“It will help them grow as students and people,” Chloe said.

The program will take place after school throughout the school year, and will be broken into two portions. During the first semester, students will learn about acting and other fundamental skills. In the second semester, the group will rehearse and perform a production.

All practices and performances will be at Perkins High School. There will not be practice or performances during breaks. The program will be free to students.

Also at the meeting, the Board: 
• Accepted the retirement notice of Christine Guss, Director of Special Education, effective June 30, 2025;

• Approved an administrative contract with Travis Webb for the position of Strength and Conditioning Coordinator, effective through June 30, 2027; 

• Approved one-year contracts for Mary James, as a counselor at PHS, and Allison Tamburrino, as preschool teacher for the 2025-2026 school year; and 

• Approved a one-year contract for Brandon Duvall, as head volleyball coach for the 2025 season.