The recent changes to the dramatic arts program by making the school show a biennial event are a violation of the Mission, Vision, and Values of St. Mary’s Academy by excluding the partnership with parents and leadership development values of the school. Our musical is something that is very close to many people at St. Mary's Academy and within the community. It is a creative outlet for students to express their talents of acting, singing, dancing, painting, choreographing, directing, hair and makeup talents and many more. Our musical is a place to make friends in many different grades and create unbreakable bonds with other students and staff that'll last a life time. For many students this is the one thing they look forward to all year. This is our Stanley Cup Game! Students make the decision to attend our school due to the fact of our outstanding Drama/Theatre program, not having our show every year, takes a large piece out of our drama program, as it is the #1 fundraiser for the drama department, as we are a self funded program. This petition is to show administration that we have the support of, not only the members of the drama department, but the student population, and that our voices cannot go unheard. We hope to show how much this musical means to us and how greatly affected many people are due to this decision. If administration continues to ignore their own policies, we will take further steps in making sure our voices are heard. Our wonderful SMA teachers have always taught us, if you are passionate about something that isn't right, stand up and use your voice!

Thank you :)

- Sincerely,

Passionate St. Mary's Students