King Elementary students preview ‘Shrek Jr.’; board and community praise program

Principal Jackie Teschke introduced King Elementary’s long-running after-school performing-arts program at the Cypress School District Board of Trustees meeting on April 10, noting the production’s 24-year history and its role in student engagement. Teschke thanked teacher leaders and volunteers, and invited the board and public to the full performances in May.

Why it matters: Board members and community partners framed the program as more than entertainment, saying arts involvement builds life skills and school engagement. Kara Patton, president of the Association of Cypress Teachers, said the program helps students develop "time management, teamwork, commitment" and other skills that extend beyond the classroom.

The program’s structure and reach: Teschke said every student who auditions receives a role and that current production Shrek Jr. includes about 75 participants in grades 4–6. Staffers described a rehearsal schedule (twice weekly, moving to longer practices) and confirmed that costumes and props are provided at no cost to families. The board also acknowledged partnerships that support arts instruction: King is a Class Act school participating with Pacific Symphony musicians, and staff described a planned Bravo Assembly in June.

Board response and recognition: Trustees praised student performers and teachers, with multiple members saying they looked forward to attending the full show. Superintendent Solavs joined the presentation and helped present certificates to participants and staff. Trustees said the visibility and enthusiasm at such events underscore the district’s investments in arts and community partnerships.

What’s next: The principal and staff reiterated the May performance dates and asked community members to attend. The board recessed briefly to allow students and families to depart and reconvened the meeting to continue district business.