Southwest High School celebrates SAVAPA Academy achievements with student performances

The Central Union High School District Board Meeting on March 11, 2025, showcased the impressive achievements of Southwest High School's Visual and Performing Arts Academy (SAVAPA), highlighting the program's impact on student creativity and community engagement.

During the meeting, ASB Director and SAVAPA Coordinator, Mr. Spanos, expressed pride in the academy's recent accomplishments, particularly noting that Southwest Eagles secured first place in a recent competition, with Central Spartans following closely in second. This achievement marks a significant milestone for both schools, fostering a sense of camaraderie and healthy competition within the district.

Students from SAVAPA took center stage, sharing their experiences and the transformative power of the arts in their education. Alyssa Bullock, the academy's vice president, emphasized the collaborative spirit of SAVAPA, where students from various disciplines—dance, theater, animation, art, and music—work together to create a supportive community. This teamwork not only enhances their artistic skills but also motivates them academically.

The students highlighted the upcoming production of "Mamma Mia," set to take place from March 28 to 30, as a prime example of their collaborative efforts. The production involves contributions from all components of SAVAPA, showcasing the talents of dancers, actors, musicians, and visual artists.

Carlos Gutierrez, president of SAVAPA Dance, shared how the program has fostered a family-like environment, allowing students to express themselves through choreography and performance. He also mentioned an upcoming trip to Hawaii, where students will have the opportunity to learn and perform, further enriching their artistic journey.

The meeting concluded with a performance preview from Danica, president of SAVAPA Music, who sang a snippet from "Mamma Mia," leaving attendees excited about the upcoming show.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of arts education in fostering student growth, creativity, and community spirit within the Central Union High School District. The board's support for programs like SAVAPA reflects a commitment to nurturing well-rounded students prepared for future success.