I interviewed Mr. Dodson, Co-Principal of Bell Middle School, at the Lilac Theatre’s performance of "Cinderella" at the Kroc Center June 11, 2008. As an education leader, he has some definite views about the importance of after-school programs, such as the Lilac Theatre, for middle school students.
- Please tell us about your career before you came to Bell.
My first career was in the Navy, where I served our country for 20 years. After I retired I continued to work for the Navy as a civilian contractor. During this time I earned my teaching credentials. I became a classroom teacher then entered the administration. My last position before coming to Bell was at Westview High School in the Poway Unified School District.
- What attracted you to become Co-Principal at Bell Middle School?
The diversity. The school has a unique ability to provide positive role models for our students.
- What is the educational role of programs like the Lilac Theatre?
Extracurricular programs are very important. Middle school students are at an age where they really want to please. With so many challenges facing young people today, opportunities like the drama, music, and art programs at Bell give students a positive place to invest their energy. I would like to see more programs like these for middle school students.
- Did you know about the Lilac Theatre before you came to Bell?
Before making my decision, I did some research. I learned that drama students graduating from Bell Middle School are highly sought after when they move up into the high schools. Bell has one of the highest success rates for placing graduates at high schools focusing on music and the performing arts.
- What was your first impression of Lilac Theatre after you arrived at Bell?
Just awesome. The dedication and devotion of teachers like Mr. Maher and Mr. Opina show up in the generous amount of time and effort they give to their students. And the students respond by giving 110 percent back. It just shows the power that positive role models can have in young people’s lives. I love going to the plays.
- You have actually taken part in a Lilac Theatre production. Tell us about that.
It was my first time to act in a play, ever, in my entire life. I was in the December, 2007 production of "A Christmas Carol". I was nervous as could be. But I had a great time and really enjoyed it.
- What is your impression of the 2008 musical, "Cinderella"?
I grew up with this play. I had three sisters, and it was their favorite play. It used to be on TV at least once a year and we always watched it as a family. I learned all the songs. When I heard Bell students practicing their songs, I couldn’t help it. I just had to start singing along with them. So it means a lot to me personally. Watching the performance makes me very proud of what Bell Middle School students can actually accomplish.
- Is there anything else about the Lilac Theatre that you would like to mention?
Yes, the alumni. These are students who have graduated from Bell and gone on to high school, or even college, but still come back to help the program.
- What makes that so important?
The alumni provide the best role models of all because they could be anywhere doing what they want. But they return and give back. They show our students how to become even better than they might have thought they could be.
- Some of the alumni really have gone on to great success. They do make great role models.
It’s even more than that. Sometimes when you see older students and younger students together, it turns into a competitive situation where the older students are looking out for themselves. But the Lilac Theatre alumni are actually there to give back, putting in long hours to help the current students. It takes a lot of positive self confidence to do that, and shows our students what is really possible for themselves.
Thank you, Mr. Dodson.
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