NEWS: First NASD Music Fest Sings (and Plays)

by Ethan Bachstein, freshman

The Nazareth Area School District was proud to present the first annual Nazareth Music Fest! Musical talent from across the district was in attendance on Thursday, February 3rd, featuring singers and musicians from each of the district's schools. The students practiced together all day at NAHS to prepare for the evening's performance.

The festival started the night with “Great Beginnings” and “Tamboura,” directed by both Ms. Mann and Mr. Hillborn. The choir started with a male section, giving two songs, and then moving on to the female section singing “Mr. Sandman” and “White Winter Hymnal.”

Following them up, the Crescendudes sang a few songs, such as “Come Go with Me” and "Build Me Up Buttercup." Following their lead, the Noteworthy sang the classics “Hello My Baby” and “Mr. Sandman.” For the big finish, the band and choir joined together, performing the National Anthem and placing their hands on their hearts as they recited the Pledge of Allegiance in unison mid-performance. As the performance concluded, the audience erupted into applause, giving the students a standing ovation.

The goals of the event were to build district-wide connections between students in the music department and to help rebuild the enthusiasm for the arts after two years of disruptions.

When the pandemic began, many musical events were postponed for safety. And as Mrs. Rocchi mentioned, it was not easy to make this happen: “I never thought singing could be dangerous. But we are back!” said choir director Mrs. Rocchi. 

A lot has changed, but what never did change was the music department’s drive to make this happen again.

 

NEWS: Principal's Student Forum Takes Off

by Kaylie Kirkham, junior

Dress codes, study hall release, schedule changes, COVID protocol, clubs and activities, vaping awareness. All of these issues are prevalent in the lives of students here at NAHS. Each student has an opinion and a voice. What good is that voice if it goes unheard? We have the power to shape the world around us, but we can’t do it silently.

This is why Mr. Davis, Mr. Wehr, and Mrs. Tashner have decided to institute the Principal's Student Forum. This forum meets once per month during 3rd block to discuss the changes students would like to see made in NAHS. This forum is open to any students who wish to join.

The first meeting of the Student Principal Forum was held on January 28. The students in attendance were given a Nearpod link where they were able to submit their opinions on several different topics. After the students were given the time to think through the prompts, Mr. Davis, Mr. Wehr, and Mrs. Tashner led a large group discussion about the issues.

Students voiced their opinions on the dress code, Eagle Block, the loss of the fourth lunch, COVID protocol, and new ideas for clubs and activities. The administrators listened carefully and responded to each student's concern individually.

Mr. Davis, Mrs. Tashner, and Mr. Wehr want to make NAHS a place where students feel safe, happy, and most importantly, heard. They plan to continue to hold the Principal Student Forum once a month. Any students with any input are welcome to join.

If you have any suggestions on how to improve our school, keep an eye on schoology for sign ups. Your voice matters, so let it be heard!


Photo credit: Kaylie Kirkham