My guiding principle for the BCCP program at Walt Whitman has always been that every student has a right to artistic expression.  It is my hope that through this expression, students develop confidence in themselves, find their voice and live creatively.   We have created an atmosphere here that invites students to explore new territories, experiment with new ideas and feel safe enough to be themselves.  When asked about the program, our students always say, “It is a place where I can be myself.”

I am deeply proud of our students and all that they have accomplished this year.  They have found their voices and produced incredible music.  They have worked collaboratively to make animations and news reports about topics that are important to them.  They have created dance ensembles and performed solo dances that express their identities.  They have learned countless new art techniques, recycled materials to make useful art objects and adorned themselves with their own designs.  They have formed teams, become captains and organized tournaments to show off their skills.  They have explored New York City, from museums and theaters to community gardens and ice skating rinks.

My sincere thanks goes out to all the BCCP staff and teaching artists who have devoted this year to serving our students. Thank you Dane, Ira, Emi, Arin, Carl, O, Sheena and Mickael for guiding the Walt Whitman students to believe in themselves and to produce such beautiful work.

I will never forget my experience here at Walt Whitman Middle School, and I will never forget the beautiful faces and smiles of all these wonderful students I have had the privilege to work with.

Best Wishes to Everyone,

Miss Jill