Fountain Valley High School Discontinues Theatre Courses

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Students passionately rehearsing for their final theatre production at Fountain Valley High School.

News Summary

Fountain Valley High School is set to discontinue its theatre course offerings due to declining enrollment and student interest, marking a significant change for the community. Despite recent successful productions and student petitions to save the program, the school faces challenges in maintaining sufficient enrollment numbers. The decision follows the reassignment of theatre teacher Robert Zick, as the school explores alternative options for supporting the arts. Students and supporters are rallying to preserve theatre education and advocate for funding through California’s Arts and Music in Schools Initiative.

Fountain Valley High School Says Goodbye to Theatre Courses

Fountain Valley, a cozy community filled with spirited students and dedicated educators, is facing a bittersweet change as the school prepares to discontinue its theatre course offerings starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. Unfortunately, the *curtain is closing* on this cherished program due to a mix of declining enrollment and reduced student interest.

Changes in Personnel Shake Things Up

The decision comes after the recent reassignment of FVHS Theatre teacher Robert Zick. He will be moving on to Ocean View High School to teach English and Social Theater. Zick learned about this change just last week and, while details surrounding his reassignment were limited, it was clear that the absence of available class sections at FVHS played a key role.

Principal Paul Lopez acknowledged the broader issue affecting schools across the district. The Huntington Beach Union High School District has noticed a consistent drop in enrollment numbers, a trend that has, unfortunately, seeped into FVHS’s theatre classes. Upperclassmen enrollment for the upcoming year is alarmingly low, with fewer than 20 students signed up for theatre courses.

A Closer Look at the Theatre Landscape

Theatre classes at FVHS, which include Theatre 1, 2, and 3, along with a Theatre Production class, have been struggling to attract students. Prior to the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, Zick had built the program to a bustling five sections. Now, however, the low enrollment numbers are leading to tough decisions.

This year, FVHS showcased some wonderful productions like *”The Play That Goes Wrong,”* *”Pippin: The Musical,”* and *”She Kills Monsters.” The upcoming shows include *”The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals”* and *”Check, Please!?”* but the future of the theatre program beyond this school year remains uncertain.

A Bit of Hope on the Horizon

With the discontinuation announcement, there is a passionate call to action from the students and supporters of the theatre program. Many are advocating for the potential use of Proposition 28, California’s Arts and Music in Schools Initiative, suggesting it could provide necessary funding for robust arts programs. They believe that this could be a lifeline that helps preserve the arts in local schools.

Additionally, FVHS administrators are exploring after-school options to keep some form of theatre alive, allowing students to continue their passion outside regular class hours. While FVHS may be cutting its theatre offerings, students are reminded that there are still theatre classes available at nearby schools within the district, like Marina High School and the Academy for the Performing Arts at Huntington Beach High School.

Students Rally for Support

In response to the news of their beloved program’s discontinuation, FVHS theatre students were informed through Zick’s heartfelt announcement. This prompted them to start a change.org petition, which has impressively gathered over 2,900 signatures from fellow students, alumni, and supporters. The community is coming together strongly, with a dedicated group, referred to as the *”Save FVHS Theatre”* team, planning dress-up days, contacting district officials, and even preparing to speak at upcoming board meetings.

Senior Lizzy Doan has stepped up as a leading voice for the theatre program, emphasizing how crucial it is for students to have a safe place for self-expression. With many students feeling strongly connected to the theatre, it’s clear the program impacts their lives deeply.

A Fond Farewell

As the final productions are prepped and rehearsals grow more intense, Zick is committed to finishing the year on a strong note. Despite the impending changes and uncertainties, the collective spirit of the FVHS theatre community is alive and fighting, proving that even in times of transition, the heart of the arts will continually beat on.