Second Night of Valpo Schools’ “This is Our Story” a Big Success

Second Night of Valpo Schools’ “This is Our Story” a Big Success

The second night of Valparaiso Community Schools’ This Is Our Story Art Festival was another wonderful holiday treat for the audience. On Tuesday night, the Valparaiso Community Schools performed and showcased their best musical performances and artwork from across the school district. From elementary to high school, students prepared for months to display their talent to thousands of people. The crowd was excited to hear the holiday performances presented by the many different choirs, orchestras, and bands. Although it was a cold night, the Valparaiso High School gymnasium was filled with the warmth and love of parents, families, and students rejoicing in togetherness.

All of the students that participated in the This Is Our Story festival spent many hours practicing and preparing for their families and friends. The community support that these students received was extraordinary. An art teacher from Northview and Central Elementary Schools, Patricia Cummings, explained how important the support from the community was to these students.

Click Here For More Photos!

“This Is Our Story showcases how amazing our children are and how wonderfully supported they are by their families,” Cummings said. “My favorite part is when I see the kids look at their artwork and they’re all excited! They get to show their mom, dad, and grandparents, it is the best thing ever. We’re so happy and pleased to be part of the kids’ lives.”

Every year, This Is Our Story brings in new students as well as students from the past. The students that come back keep the community strong. Allison Nix, an art teacher from Heavilin School, shared her story and perspective as a teacher now.

“I used to be a band student, so I participated years ago in This Is Our Story. As a teacher, this is my first time here,” Nix said. “It has been really fun and merry at Heavilin because the choirs were practicing in the mornings. This Is Our Story is great because it brings all of the schools together and it is a good way to connect.”

Reese Clausing, a 6th Grade student from Benjamin Franklin Middle School, agreed as well, explaining why This Is Our Story is great for the community.

“This event is so great for our community because it brings people together,” Clausing stated. “It just helps people cheer up for Christmas!”

Whether people participated in This Is Our Story or just supported the many young and talented students, there was holiday cheer everywhere. The holidays bring people together and with over 4,000 people in attendance This Is Our Story had yet another successful night. What This Is Our Story means to some may be different to others, but one thing that is certain is that everyone shared and delighted in this story. The Valparaiso Community Schools students and teachers were to thank for putting on this wonderful Christmas show, and the community can’t wait to see what they have up their sleeve next.