The Visual and Performing Arts Academy welcomed former VPAA Department Chair and theatre teacher Mrs. Sharon Byrd as the new Academy Coordinator after Mrs. Amy Schuiteboer’s retirement. In her first few months, Mrs. Byrd has already made an impact on both students and staff. As the school community adjusts to this change, students and faculty are eager to share their thoughts on her influence on the school and the changes she has introduced.
“As a leader, my goal is to help build and support a thriving artistic community where students feel inspired, supported, and empowered to explore and develop their creative potential,” said Byrd.
“I am committed to supporting teachers as they provide students with a well-rounded arts education that balances creativity with critical thinking, communication, and collaboration nurturing each student’s capability by providing high-quality instruction across all disciplines – visual arts, music, dance, and theatre – so that students can develop both technical skills and creative expression,” said Byrd.
Her dedication to fostering a comprehensive arts education is evident in her commitment to enhancing students’ creative and analytical skills. This dedication combined with her experience, made her an excellent candidate for the coordinator position.
“Mrs. Byrd brings her many years of experience as an artist/actor, teacher, and most importantly her experience as a member of the VPAA team,” said Principal Carey Manugo. “She was the obvious choice for VPAA Coordinator when we interviewed for the position last year. She is fully vested in the success of the VPAA and Salem HS.”
Byrd has been an educator for over a decade, but she also spent time as an actress.
“Her experience as an artist helps to keep VPAA programs relevant and in-line with traditional and contemporary aspects of the arts,” said Manugo. “This allows us to keep moving forward with growing the VPAA for the benefit of our students. Her experience as an academy teacher [also] gives her a strong foundation for the day-to-day of the VPAA. Her experience as the previous department chair of the VPAA provides a strong perspective about the planning, instruction, and assessment components of teaching in the VPAA with the planning, structures, and logistics of running an academy program within a comprehensive high school.”
Overall, the student response to Byrd being selected to fill Schuiteboer’s shoes has been very positive.
“Mrs. Byrd has a very free spirit, which I feel like, when she was my Acting 2 teacher, she really allowed us the space to explore our artist’s freedom,” said junior Isaiah Bolden.
Bolden added, “As one of our new admin, I think she’ll provide a friendly yet structured approach to how she’ll guide academy students.”
This transition has been met with enthusiasm and optimism. Her vision for an inspiring artistic community positions her as a key figure in the continued success and growth of the academy. As she continues to implement her ideas and support the academy’s mission, the future looks bright for both students and staff under her leadership.
