Author: SUHSD

The Sweetwater Union High School District hosted the 22nd Annual StringFest event, just one of the largest music events of the year in the districts Visual and Performing Arts Department (VAPA).

StringFest gathers more than 600 of the districts orchestra students at one site, for one day, to learn from experts in string pedagogy. This years’ event featured beautiful compositions from talented middle & high orchestra students throughout the district.

Over the years, VAPA has developed partnerships with area musicians including the Hausmann Quartet, SDSU, San Diego Symphony, San Diego Youth Symphony, and USD among others. According to Director of VAPA Jeff Kover, during StringFest, students are exposed to master teachers and learn new techniques, leadership, new repertoire, and are able to develop bonds with musicians from around the district.

“This year StringFest has kept with the new California Arts Standards which emphasizes process over product,” said Kover. “We are very proud of that and the positive affect it will have on our students.”

At the end of the day, the advanced high school orchestra musicians perform for community members music they’ve learned during the workshop.

“Over the years, I’ve noticed that this event in particular builds camaraderie amongst our students,” said Tamara Frazier, Teacher Castle Park Middle School. “It’s a great way to connect students on all levels.”

Recently, the Sweetwater District hosted the RISE Celebrating Black Excellence “African American Scholars Conference” with more than 150 parents and students in attendance.

The mission of the RISE Conference is to empower all African American students in the Sweetwater District to know their rich cultural history, create opportunities to pursue their dreams, and to produce leaders who inspire our community.

Assemblymember Shirley Weber was the events keynote and she shared an inspirational message with attendees. Other guest speakers included Dr. Joe Fulcher, Sweetwater District, Assistant Superintendent of Equity Culture and Support Services and several others. Lunch was also provided and attendees had the opportunity to engage with a room full of local black scholars, artists and business professionals.

“I have been a part of many student conferences, but I am particularly proud of this experience as were able to coalesce the talents of many educators and community members to create a special experience for our African American students,” said Rick Cooke, Eastlake Middle School Principal and event coordinator. “ It was an honor to hear the wisdom of Assemblywoman Dr. Shirley Weber and to see our students dream about their tremendous futures by seeing people in various professions that look like them. We are excited to already start work on next year’s conference!”

“We believe every African American student is talented, and is able to express himself/herself in a positive manner,” said Cooke. We believe every African American student is smart and capable of producing at high academic levels, thoughtful and supports the African American community, respectful and takes great pride in their culture. And we believe every African American student is a leader who builds up others and is resilient in overcoming any obstacle.”