By Isabel Santanilla
Photo courtesy of Laeryd Rich
Are eighth graders happy with the decision they made many moons ago when they committed themselves to a Certificate of Artistry (CA) program every single school day for the next four years?
I checked in with the ninth graders who made this exact same decision a year ago to see how they’re feeling about their decision a year in. To get the most honest responses, all four students who participated in this article will be anonymous.
For those unfamiliar with the CA program offered here at the Willow School, it is a four-year-long arts program that students take every day. There are various different arts that students can pick from including, but not limited to, visual art, theater, creative writing, orchestra, stagecraft, and choir.
The students participating in this article are two visual art students, a stagecraft student, and a choir student. They were all interviewed about their past, present, and future in their chosen CA. Getting the ball rolling, our first interviewee is a CAVA (CA visual arts) student.
Visual Artist #1
“I chose CAVA because I really like pottery, as well as watercolor. I don’t regret picking my CA.
My favorite part of CAVA would be all of the things that I’ve learned since I’ve started. I’m a much better artist than I was in the beginning of the year. I am also more disciplined. Another thing that’s great about my CA is all the people in it who I’ve gotten to know and have become friends with. I am continuing with my CA next year, and I’m excited to do more sculptural work, as well as continue drawing and painting.”
Visual Artist #2
“I chose my CA because of my passion for art and wanting to grow in a community where everyone else is passionate about art. I do NOT regret picking my CA at all. I would regret it if I didn’t pick it. I love my CA so, so, so much. My favourite part of CAVA is probably being able to do art every day with the same group of people. I’m constantly learning and working on something I’m passionate about. My least favourite part of my CA would probably be nothing. I really like my CA. I’m looking forward to working on more art and more technical art as I continue to level up in my CA. I would totally recommend CAVA to anyone in a younger grade. I already have recommended it to so many people who are interested in art, and I love telling people how much I love CAVA.”
Stagecraft student
“I chose my CA because I wanted to be a part of theater, but not on stage. I do not regret picking my CA. I’ve gotten so much closer to the people in my CA. Plus, it’s so fun. My favorite part of my CA is probably the group projects we do frequently, and even if we’re not doing group projects, we still talk about what we’re working on. My least favorite part is when you’re working with a group and people don’t show up. It puts you behind, but it never affects your grade as long as you do your part while they’re gone. Yes, I would like to continue my CA. I’m most looking forward to working on the plays in the future and working on set designs.”
Choir student
“I chose CA choir because I have always loved singing. It’s what I’m passionate about and what I would like to pursue when I’m older! I don’t regret my decision at all! It is a very fun class, especially when we get to work on harmonizing and upbeat, popular songs such as ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’! We learn new songs, skills, and meet new people! Plus, there’s no homework. My favorite part of my CA would definitely be the people. We’re like one big family in that class. Everyone gets along and works really well together! Plus, after concerts we always have a class party with snacks and games. I wouldn’t say I have a least favorite part! If anything, sometimes I don’t prefer some of the songs we do, but it’s a learning experience that is great for widening my perspective and musical expertise. I’m excited to endure more solo performances. They always make me feel accomplished afterward!”
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