This short film explores how a theater program can impact the lives of students in incredible ways and features students and educators from Lincoln High School in Lincoln, Nebraska. It was originally filmed in 2011 and has recently been updated with never-before-seen footage. 

Before her election to the Nebraska State Board of Education in 2016, Patsy Koch Johns was the chairperson of the English and drama department at Lincoln High. She built the school’s theater program on a central idea — every child should feel they are fantastic at something and it’s the role of teachers to help students feel wanted and appreciated.

All students at Lincoln High are encouraged to find a place in one of the many worlds within the theater program, from costume design to acting, or even just learning to be an astute observer of the arts.

Watch how Koch Johns and her colleagues create a safe haven within the Lincoln High theater department, where students are accepted for who they are.