Students in Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School’s Performing Arts program and CCHS orchestra recently returned from an incredible educational trip to New York City, where they performed on the historic stage of Carnegie Hall, an experience that many musicians spend a lifetime dreaming of.
The trip offered students immersive opportunities for cultural learning, including visits to the Museum of Modern Art, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, as well as attending a performance of Hamilton on Broadway.
Most importantly, our students delivered an outstanding performance at Carnegie Hall, showcasing the dedication, discipline, and artistry they have developed through the arts programs in the Clarke County School District.
Students and families described the experience as truly transformative. As 8th-grade violinist Allison Cortez proudly shared, “We are middle schoolers who performed at Carnegie Hall! It was the best opportunity ever, and I am forever grateful to have had the chance to do this.”
Parents echoed the impact. One parent reflected that watching her child on the Carnegie Hall stage was “a moment I will never forget… a testament to what happens when a school, a family, and a community believe in their students.” Another shared that the trip “extended far beyond the classroom,” helping students build confidence, independence, and a deeper appreciation for history, culture, and the arts.
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity was made possible by the generous support of our community partners and stakeholders, including James Striepe, Mark Jennings, Athens Construction, First Christian Church, Athens Area Community Foundation, Nakanishi Manufacturing, AthFest Educates, Classic City Cultural Foundation, Burton & Burton, La Parrilla, and the BHL LSGT. Their dedication to arts education helped ensure that students from a Title I school could enjoy world-class cultural experiences.
The success of this trip was also made possible through the dedication of our educators and the unwavering support of families. As I shared with our community, “Music is my calling and my ministry. I am deeply grateful to the students, families, colleagues, and community partners whose belief in the power of music education made this transformative opportunity possible.”
For many students, this was their first time flying, their first visit to New York City, and the realization of a dream they will forever cherish. It serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a school district, community, and families unite to support the arts and invest in young people. Thanks to opportunities like this, our students can see themselves in a world beyond Athens, GA. A world that is theirs to explore!