Stage Lights, Soft Hearts

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What if a classroom could feel like a rehearsal room—brave, focused, and full of possibility? We sit down with 25-year-old performing arts teacher Avelyn Simons to explore how kindness, boundaries, and creative practice can transform shy teens into confident speakers and generous teammates. From building a drama program from scratch to steering a mixed-ability public speaking class, Avelyn shares real stories, simple systems, and a service-first approach that makes empathy actionable.

We dig into the realities of earning respect as a young educator and why “phone jail” isn’t about control but about making space for presence. Avelyn breaks down how theater games lower social risk, how structure turns nerves into clarity, and how students learn more than lines—they learn to read a room, project calm, and show up for each other. The conversation moves from backstage heroics and 10-second costume changes to community trips where students bring the magic of performance to immigrant and lower-income families, reframing talent as a gift meant to be shared.

Along the way, you’ll hear about moments that sparkle—singing at the Empire State Building, unexpected breakthroughs from a sports kid who found his voice, and the handwritten notes that remind teachers why the work matters. If you care about arts education, classroom culture, student confidence, or practical ways to weave empathy into everyday learning, this conversation will land. Subscribe, share with a teacher or parent who needs a lift, and leave a review telling us your favorite takeaway—your voice helps more listeners find stories of kindness that last.

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