Project Proposal
Funds from the CHS Foundation will allow the Performing Arts Department to hire a guest artist to provide professional choreography instruction from various time periods to students who are enrolled in the Musical Theater course. These sessions will help all students gain valuable performance experience regardless of their current skill level.
Amount Funded
$1,800
“It’s been exciting to witness the different ways students have grown through working with our choreographer. Students with extensive dance experience are now more knowledgeable and prepared for college performing arts programs. There are also students who are gifted vocalists without much dance experience, and their confidence while learning new dance steps has skyrocketed.”
Kathryn Bohn – CHS Performing Arts Teacher, Class of 2017
150 Students Impacted
Commitment to Closing the Opportunity Gap
It has long been the tradition of Central High School to provide high-quality performing arts education to students of many diverse backgrounds and experiences. Too often, performing arts opportunities are expensive or inaccessible for students. By providing funds to bring in a local dance artist, students can build their performance skills, regardless of their background or prior experiences. While many students are interested in and love performing, working directly with industry professionals other than their teachers is often a rare experience. By supporting this opportunity, the Foundation is ensuring that background, socioeconomic status, and other factors don’t inhibit student access to the arts.
Translation to College and Career Readiness
The Musical Theater and Dance course was designed to fit into the Theatrical Arts Pathway. Many students in this class are considering pursuing careers in performing arts. Learning from and working with a local artist ensures students have access to vital information about performing arts careers, college programs, and performance opportunities in Omaha. By working with this guest artist, students gain insight into the college application and audition process and build confidence in their singing and dancing skills. The students have become more than just proficient performers; they are better public speakers and collaborators.
“I really enjoy the way that Ms. Julie taught us, and I thought that the dancing was a nice way to engage in the class more! I am grateful for the support from the Foundation for this incredible experience!”
Jaiden Harvey, Class of 2026