Notes from the Director:
Our fall musical has become such a fun tradition and I am very proud of it. I truly love getting to see our middle and high school students come together not only to create a fun show, but to create a positive and uplifting environment. I am blessed to have some of the most kind and inviting students out there - and that is what sets them apart.
I grew up reading Junie B Jones and LOVED them. In fact, all of my Junie B Jones books remain in my childhood chest of memories because of how much I loved these books. Upon finding out that my students also read the books growing up, I knew what had to be done. All that said, picking a show for the fall semester was an easy decision this year - Junie B Jones is FUN and that's exactly what these kids deserve!
But more than that, Junie B Jones is relatable. She takes those uncomfortable and awkward experiences that we all have had and exaggerates them so that the only appropriate response is to laugh. Imagine how light life would be if we could take all of those embarrasing and uncomfortable experiences and laugh them away! Junie B Jones embraces her uniqueness and does not let her personality fade amongst people who aren't the same as her. She believes in herself, embraces her quirks and is able to overcome all of her social obstacles because of it.
A musical has a lot of moving parts and I have a great team that truly makes such a difference in the production process.
I would like to personally thank:
Gabe O'Reilly for being the greatest co-teacher I could ask for, all the coffee, and being up for doing anything for our program
Daniel Butcher for spending so many hours working with me on the music and putting together an awesome band
Julia Stertz for being an awesome sidekick, keeping me laughing, and making me proud all the time
Mr. Kiblinger for his unwavering support of the performing arts program and for me as a teacher
My parent volunteers who continue to make events smooth with their support and involvement
The Pinellas County Referendum Funds for providing the funds needed to pull off shows like this.
I have had so much fun putting this show together and working with these talented students, and I am thrilled that you get to be a part of the final product. Sit back, relax, and get ready to go back to First Grade!
Cara-lyn Mullholand
