Broadway NOW! just completed its first rotation at Roosevelt Elementary in San Bernardino. I was lucky enough to teach 30 students in grades 2 through 5 via the ELX CAPS after-school program. What I didn’t expect was the spark of joy, confidence, and creativity that ignited in the hearts and minds of both myself and my classroom.
Being part of an innovative elementary school theater program that brings Broadway-style performances directly into the classroom empowers students to express themselves in ways that go far beyond the standard curriculum. And for many of our students—especially those who’ve never been exposed to live performance or theater before—it’s been nothing short of transformative.
Building Confidence Through Theater
When Broadway NOW! first arrived at Roosevelt Elementary, some of our students were hesitant. Many had never stepped foot on a stage, let alone performed in front of an audience. But week after week, with guidance from my passionate co-teacher and incredible program directors, we watched the students’ personalities unfold and bloom.
I remember walking into the classroom in week four to find all of our students dressed to impress with creative, unique hairstyles and pops of color. They walked with confidence, ready to slay—and were suddenly unafraid to sing solos and dance their hearts out.
They learned that art is not an escape, but a roadmap for expression, growth, and emotional intelligence. They learned to trust themselves fearlessly.
Once-shy students were suddenly projecting their voices with confidence. My co-teachers and I observed friendships form through collaborative rehearsals and witnessed firsthand the joy on their faces when they received a round of applause from peers, teachers, and families.
Supporting the Whole Child
What sets Broadway NOW! apart is its focus on developing the whole child. Yes, students learn choreography, voice, and acting—but they also build teamwork, leadership, and emotional intelligence. These are the kinds of soft skills that stay with them for life.
As a teacher, it’s incredibly rewarding to integrate performing arts into our school day in a way that uplifts our existing curriculum. Our students are not just memorizing lines—they’re learning storytelling, empathy, and how to stand in their own power.
The Impact on Our San Bernardino Community
Programs like Broadway NOW! are especially important in communities like ours here in San Bernardino, where arts funding can be limited. It gives our students access to high-quality arts education without having to leave their neighborhood school.
It’s also been a powerful way to bring families together. Our school performances have become community events, where parents, grandparents, and students show up to cheer on our young stars.
We Love Broadway in San Bernardino
Broadway NOW! has truly been a gift to Roosevelt Elementary—and the school has, in turn, been a gift to our teachers and staff. It’s not just a program—it’s a movement. One that’s building confidence, encouraging expression, and creating future leaders through the arts.
If you’re an educator or parent in the San Bernardino Unified School District looking to bring the magic of theater to your campus, reach out. We can’t wait for the show to begin!
