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DWSA student-artists perform on "Class Act" with Chris Wragge for DWSA feature story

Chris Wragge and Dr. Smith.
DWSA student-artists perform on "Class Act" with Chris Wragge for DWSA feature story

Denzel Washington School of the Arts students were featured on CBS’s latest “Class Act” with Chris Wragge. A pep rally was held on Friday, January 24, 2025, featuring drumline, dance, poetry and vocal performances. Students in the crowd cheered on their classmates as they performed for the live broadcast. 

“The excitement that filled the room was incredible,” said DWSA Principal Andrea Thomas. “The energy and passion that the students displayed on stage were well worth it. The support of the staff and parents were unparalleled. The memories will be long lasting, especially for our seniors.” 

During the pep rally, pieces from past productions such as “West Side Story” and "Annie," were shown to highlight the work of the student-artists. Students in DWSA’s drumline, the DWSA Chorale, and the DWSA Gospel Choir all showed off their talents as Chris Wragge highlighted the different programs at the school. Students also gave individual performances in singing, dancing and poetry

“The one beautiful thing about this school is the fact that we have arts integration into the academics,” Ms. Thomas told Chris Wragge. “That enables the children to enhance their critical thinking, their recall, and gives them the stage presence they need for future endeavors.”

While there is an artistic focus at DWSA, academics are the top priority. The balance of academics and the arts leads to well-rounded students that are able to manage whatever they have on their plates. The academic standards at DWSA were also featured on “Class Act.” 

To view more coverage of "Class Act" with Chris Wragge at DWSA click here and here.

Check out some behind the scenes footage from the filming here!

And view clips from the show here:

Andrea Thomas and Chris Wragge.
Chris Wragge and Dr. Smith.
Student singing.
Principal Thomas and Chris Wragge and students.
Student singing
Students drumming
Students singing
Chris Wragge standing with parent and child.
Students holding out hands and dancing.
Students cheering for pep rally.
Students holding up their hands and singing.
DWSA students holding up signs.
AP Wright speaking with Chris Wragge

 

DWSA students learn about opportunities at college fair
DWSA students learn about opportunities at college fair

Representatives from colleges and universities were available to students in the Denzel Washington School of the Arts library today, as the school held its college fair. Students connected with the representatives and learned about programs, majors and career paths. They also learned about scholarships and financial aid resources that can help them with planning for their college journey.

DWSA students create artwork for 'StickTogether' project
DWSA students create artwork for 'StickTogether' project

Last week, several groups of students at Denzel Washington School of the Arts completed collaborative “StickTogether” projects in the Denzel Washington Library. Students worked on the StickTogether, which replicated Vermeer's painting, "The Girl with the Pearl Earring." StickTogether projects promote mindfulness and positive teamwork. Eighth graders Liliana Oliveras and Anna McKoy were two of the many students who worked on these projects.