From cast to directors: Albert Schweitzer Elementary School alumni give back through theater

Students walked to center stage with scripts in hand, where they practiced their lines in character as rehearsals for Albert Schweitzer Elementary School’s production of Beauty and the Beast took place after school.

Helping guide them in bringing the story to life were three high school students and Schweitzer alumni, who offered encouragement and called out cues for the younger cast. 

For the 11th-grade student directors, Leila Edwards, Elyse Jacinto and Lennox Henson, this production is more than just a play. It’s a chance to return to the place where their own love for theater and connection to their school community first began.

Before the curtains opened on March 27, the three alumni spent months working with third through fifth-grade students to build not only a performance, but a welcoming space where students can grow in confidence, creativity and connection.

Leila, a student at Mira Loma High School, participated in Schweitzer’s theater program from kindergarten through fifth grade. She credits the experience with helping shape who she is today.

“It really built my confidence and my speaking skills,” she said. “It was a great way to make friends and connect with people.”

Leila remembers being inspired by her own high school directors and always hoped she would one day return in the same role.

“They really helped us and pushed us along,” she said. “I just wanted to come back and give it forward in a way.”

Like Leila, Elyse found in theater a place of growth, creativity and connection to discover herself.

“You get to be a different version of yourself,” Elyse said. “You don’t have to feel judged, you can just have fun with it.”

Now at Del Campo High School, Elyse is proud to witness the same transformation in the students she is directing that she experienced. 

“It’s amazing to watch their personalities come out,” she said. “They’re eager to learn, to perform and to be part of something together.”

For Lennox, the experience is deeply personal as he was navigating a new school. 

“I came in during third grade, and I remember watching the play because I was too scared to join,” he said. 

By fourth and fifth grade, that hesitation turned into participation, and eventually, a passion for theater and community. As a director, he focuses on creating a space where students can feel joy and a sense of belonging.

“For those two hours, I just want them to have fun,” he said. “No matter what kind of day they had, I want them to smile at least once or twice.”

For the elementary students, the experience has been just as meaningful.

“I think it’s really fun meeting new people and hanging out with my friends,” said Maggie, a fifth grader playing Mrs. Potts. “The directors are really nice and supportive, ”

Maggie also enjoys learning from students who once stood in her place. “They always talk about the plays they were in, and it’s really cool to see how they did it,” she said.

By returning to guide the next generation, these student directors show San Juan Unified’s commitment to safe, welcoming learning environments. Through opportunities like this, students feel connected, supported and inspired to give back, helping build a stronger school community for the future.