It has come to our attention that Mrs. Newton is going to be removed from teaching Drama at Glendale Secondary School after this school year, emphasizing the urgency and significance of our actions to reverse this decision.

We, the students, parents, and supporters of Glendale Secondary School's Program of the Arts, hereby petition to retain Mrs. Newton in her invaluable role as not only a Drama teacher, but also a beacon of light. Mrs. Newton has been a source of inspiration, support, and dedication within our school community, positively impacting the lives of countless students.

Mrs. Newton's contributions extend far beyond the Drama classroom. As the director of some of the school's recent musicals, she orchestrates unforgettable performances that showcase our students' talents and unite our community in celebration of the arts. Her dedication within the last school year has led to the successful productions of RENT and currently NEWSIES, captivating audiences and instilling a sense of pride in our school. Additionally, her role in choreographing multiple musical theatre dance teams adds another outlet of expression for aspiring students, bringing energy and positivity to the space every week.

Mrs. Newton worked hard to curate and bring to life a new course called "Drama in the Community". The purpose of this class was to bring life and joy to people and places that might not otherwise have the privilege to watch theatre, and instil the importance of performing for the sake of the audience. In this course, students were given the opportunity to create performance pieces for a myriad of different members of our community. From Throwback dances for Old folk's homes, Puppet shows for Glendale's Special Education classroom, to Children's Theatre intended for Children's Hospitals. 

Moreover, Mrs. Newton's leadership has propelled our National Theatre School (NTS) students forward to Regionals two years in a row. Her mentorship, guidance, and unwavering support have enabled our students to excel on the regional stage, further showcasing the exceptional talent nurtured under her tutelage.

Furthermore, Mrs. Newton's commitment to student well-being is unparalleled. She serves as a mentor, confidante, and advocate for every student, always providing a listening ear and compassionate guidance. Her availability, approachability, and unwavering support create a nurturing environment where students feel empowered to pursue their passions and overcome challenges.

Mrs. Newton's dedication to the National Theatre School festival (NTS) has been instrumental in our school's success. Her encouragement and leadership have led numerous students to receive awards for excellence in ensemble work, both in 2023 and 2024. Her mentorship and guidance empower students to explore their creativity and excel on the stage.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Newton plays a crucial role in enhancing the school's online presence through her help managing the school's Instagram account. Her efforts showcase the talent and achievements of our students, fostering a sense of pride and community within our school and beyond.

Mrs. Newton's commitment to inclusivity ensures that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to participate in school activities. She goes above and beyond, sourcing and making stunning costumes for shows, ensuring that each performance is a visually stunning and cohesive experience. Her dedication to equity and access ensures that all students feel valued and included in the artistic community she has cultivated.

Removing Mrs. Newton from her position would not only deprive our school of an exceptional educator but also diminish the vibrant culture and spirit she has cultivated within the Program of the Arts. Her dedication, expertise, and genuine care for her students make her an indispensable asset to Glendale Secondary School.

Therefore, we respectfully urge the administration to reconsider their decision and retain Mrs. Newton as the Drama teacher at Glendale Secondary School. Let us continue to benefit from her exceptional teaching, unwavering support, and transformative impact on the lives of students.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Respectfully,

Concerned Students of Glendale Secondary School.