Parent Statement.

As a mom, there is nothing more powerful than watching your child find where they truly belong. For my daughter, that place has been the theater arts program at Foster High School.

Theater is so much more than performances on a stage. It builds confidence, teaches discipline, fosters creativity, and creates a space where students can express themselves freely and authentically. It’s where friendships are formed, voices are discovered, and young people learn how to collaborate, support one another, and grow.

This program holds a special place in my heart because I once pursued my own path in theater, attending AMDA and experiencing firsthand the impact the arts can have on a person’s life. To now watch my daughter follow that same passion and to see her find her “people” within this incredible program is something I can’t fully put into words.

Theater gives students a sense of belonging. It gives them confidence to stand tall, to be seen, and to tell stories that matter. Programs like this don’t just shape performers-they shape strong, empathetic, and courageous individuals.

That’s why it’s so important we protect and support programs like this. Proposed budget cuts that impact the arts are not just numbers on a page, they directly affect opportunities, student growth, and the sense of community these programs create. These changes need to be reconsidered.

I’m beyond grateful for the Foster High School Theater program and the lasting impact it continues to have on so many students, including my own. Let’s continue to invest in what truly makes a difference in our kids’ lives