The Joy of Choice

Last night at Vistamar was an extravaganza. Our student artists, musicians, and performers showcased their work and talent in the Performing Arts Space and Creative Commons. The art room buzzed with student work as well as drafting in action from a live model and still life. The hallways were packed with three-dimensional constructions out of clay, paper mache, wire, and found objects. An installation of upside-down painted umbrellas formed a canopy over a newly imagined piano lounge. The line was long to file into the music room to listen to the rock ensemble, jazz ensemble and choir. And a large audience was delighted with musical theater performances from our acting class students. Everywhere I turned there was engagement and amazement.

The night was even more vibrant as we welcomed our newly enrolled families to experience this cultivated creativity. No doubt, new students were inspired to sign up for their arts electives when the time comes. Perhaps foremost on the minds of the new students was who else chose to enroll at Vistamar with them. In my welcome, I acknowledged the power of the choice that every person in our community made to be a part of Vistamar. Our staffulty members joined Vistamar for its mission, ethos, and program. They annually renew their choice, in part, due to the extraordinary support they get from families. The process that the school and families go through to choose one another to build our community is exciting. The families are moved by the culture of care, the culture of kindness, the inspiring educators and the range of opportunities. The school is moved by seeing the promise of each student to grow and contribute to the life of our school. Vistamar is ready to breathe in the new energy and passions that our newly enrolled students bring.

Ultimately, we all have made the choice to embrace high school life and learning together. We are invested in one another’s success. Indeed the showcase of Visual and Performing Arts Night last night was one powerful example of phenomenal accomplishment. Congratulations to the students and staffulty who devoted so much time and energy bringing so much joy to our school.

 

In community,

 

Erik Carlson