A lifetime of good health A lifetime of good health
We’re elevating oncology care in our community by bringing together medical and surgical oncologists who are national leaders in the cancers they treat. By ensuring patients have access to the best experts all in one place, we can provide the most advanced treatment options that lead to better outcomes and a better experience.
Lights, Camera, Empower!
By Erika Cain
festivals , space, and more! 8
Teachers answer parents’ questions
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Celebrating unsung heroes
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High schoolers make music that
space and time By Alex Greene
A Traditional Breakfast with a Twist!
GRANDPARENTING
Let the kiddos have their moments of drama — and comedy. By Jon W. Sparks
Some helpful tips to get your family on the same page
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Welcome back to school — let’s get ready to jumble!
I know what you’re thinking. Because I’m thinking it, too. Summer’s out, and the days of thunder are among us. Another 180 days (or longer for some) of rushing out the door with your first cup of coffee only to find yourself jammed in traffic with like-minded drivers who share the same agenda as you. You can probably fill in the blanks swiftly with what that might entail, but mostly it includes weaving through the chaos of potholes, school crossings, cars zigzagging to get an inch closer to their destination, and maybe even some radio shuffling to find your favorite morning show to set the tone of your day.
mom of a college graduate (Go Vols!) and high school junior, I still find myself encompassed in their goals and aspirations, even more than mine. I have managed to work my life around the school year from their littlest days of pre-K (several years as a work-athome mom) to them making sound decisions on their own as young adults.
we’ve shown them through building them up in purposeful ways to be the driving force to positively impact the world.
Parents all thrive for the same thing — get their loved ones delivered to school safely and intact.
Whether your child is a traditional school student, homeschooler, or college bound, there’s definitely much to be navigated for a smooth and successful school year. As a
As we’re tackling the driving phase of my teenager, I often wonder — as most of my fellow parent community can probably concur — is it more stressful to send them out into the wild all alone and hope they return to you without a scratch or bruise, or just keep Ubering them to their 205 destinations each week? Lots of pros and cons there, but I will say that no matter how soon you choose to whisk them off, just know they retain a lot of what we work so hard to do in raising them (even if they don’t often exhibit), including the love, grace, and growth
As we kick off the 2024-25 school year, just know that Memphis Parent has your back! From quick-fix breakfast meals to tips for a successful school year, and more opportunities to get your children involved in the arts (hence, more running around for you). Take lots of first-day photos and share away while we continue to make memories together as a community of vested individuals for our future.
Best wishes this school year to all of our students, parents, teachers, administrators, superintendents, and to all who make up the educational community.
Later, my friends! Editor
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Learn Differently
Concord Academy surrounds students with a culture of understanding, a sense of belonging, and a dedication to helping them thrive.
Our specialized faculty and staff support student learning and growth within a culture of acceptance. Concord embraces differences, including Autism, learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, and other neurodiverse learning needs.
As Concord students step into adult life, they’re confident in their abilities and ready to shine.
Enrolling now grades 6 – 12 Concord Academy | 4942 Walnut Grove Rd www.concord-academy.org info@concord-academy.org | 901-682-3115
MISSION: ASTRONAUT
Mission: Astronaut is an interactive journey designed to give visitors a taste of life as an astronaut. Each section presents tasks that require an astronaut’s mindset to solve, using skills like engineering, physics, teamwork, and fun.
Museum of Science & History, through September 2
AUGUST
3 • Saturday Summer Splash
Overton Park Conservancy will pop up waterslides on the Greensward to celebrate the end of summer vacation.
Overton Park Greensward, August 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
24 • Saturday
Teen Workshop: Marbled Paper Bookmaking (ages 14-18)
Participants in this workshop will learn the exciting techniques of water marbling and bookmaking. Take home a one-of-a-kind sketchbook, with colorful pages just waiting to be filled with drawings. The theme of the night will be Elvis. Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will provide ASL tours for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, August 24, 1-4 p.m.
SEPTEMBER
21 • Saturday Latin Fest 901
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a family-oriented Latin festival that provides a place to gather with family and friends to listen and dance to live Latin music, taste some Latin food and drinks, crafts for kids, vendors, and fun for everyone in an open social space.
Overton Square, September 21, noon-6 p.m.
25 • Wednesday
Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert
This concert offers a captivating experience, blending a live orchestral performance of the iconic series soundtrack with an immersive twohour recap of the animated show’s three seasons on a full-size cinema screen.
Orpheum Theatre, September 25, 7:30 p.m.
ONGOING
Orion Free Concert Series
The Orion Free Concert Series welcomes local, national, and international acts to the historic stage where legendary talent has left a timeless legacy. Find the full lineup at overtonparkshell.org/freeconcertseries.
Overton Park Shell, select dates
Get Outside! Fitness - Kidokinetics
Finding the right sports enrichment program for your child shouldn’t be a hassle. Kidokinetics of Memphis’ carefully designed PE programs offer numerous benefits that extend beyond physical fitness. Explore how Kidokinetics of Memphis sports enrichment programs can empower your child’s growth.
Shelby Farms Park, Wednesdays, 5 p.m., free
Photo courtesy
Pixabay
DEAR TEACHER
By Marge Eberts and Peggy Gisler
WHAT ARE SCHOOLS LIKE TODAY?
Parents: As a generalization, you can expect your children’s schools — preschool through high school — to be more academically challenging than the ones you attended. On your own state’s education website, you can usually see what children are expected to learn in public schools at each level from kindergarten through high school.
Most states have adopted the Common Core Standards for English, language arts, and mathematics, so there is some uniformity across the country. These standards have learning goals and end-of-year expectations. However, teachers can determine how these goals will be met.
What follows is a look at what is happening across the country that you can compare to what is occurring in your children’s schools.
The Biggest Change
More than 2,000 schools have moved from having the traditional 5-day week to a 4-day week with a longer schedule each day. While parents, students, and teachers seem to like it, there is little saving of funds and students’ academic progress is slower over time than those having a 5-day week.
A Look at Preschool Programs
Sadly, believe it or not, research done by the National Institute for Early Education Research shows that most preschool programs are not “high-quality.” So, there is now a movement to develop state standards for all preschool programs.
Basically, there are two types of preschool programs, those that last about 3 ½ hours long and those that are all day and will include rest time and some meals. The idea behind both programs is for children to learn “pre-skills” to lay the groundwork for elementary school. This means learning school routines.
You will find preschool classrooms feature learning stations with art, music, science, math, sand, and water activities. There will also be group activities, especially ones featuring the teacher reading stories to students.
How much academics children pick up depends greatly on the preschool. Many will expect students to learn to count to 10,
read their own names, and recognize some letters of the alphabet, especially those in their first names.
Kindergarten is Academic Nowadays
Yesterday’s milk and cookies kindergartens no longer exist for the most part. Most kindergartens now look like what first grade once was. One of the big changes is the move away from a half day of school to a full day. This all happened back in 2001 with the No Child Left Behind legislation that stressed testing starting in third grade and learning standards. Recess once was 45 minutes at this level — now it’s often just 15.
Many teachers routinely have kindergarteners start their day with reading and math worksheets. By the end of the year, students are often expected to be able to count to 100, write numbers from 0 to 20, read and write simple words, know all their letters and sounds, and read simple books.
Now all this is happening with a strong degree of conflict between educators. The academic kindergarten proponents cite some studies that actually show that children in academic kindergartens do no worse than those in play-based ones in self-control, focus, and behavior. On the other side, the play-based advocates stress the years of studies that say the play-based approach is the best strategy for young learners to grow in all developmental areas. In addition, there is their very valid argument that all kindergarteners are simply not ready developmentally to handle an academic approach.
Today’s Elementary Schools
Clearly, there is a tremendous diversity in what is being taught and how it is being taught in elementary schools. Obviously, the computer is part of so much instruction. Teachers who are technologically savvy are able to use it more imaginatively to individualize instruction to meet individual students’ needs and abilities. Most classrooms will have a mix of computerbased and teacher-based instruction.
Typically, computers are introduced slowly as early as first grade. The first task
is for students to learn how to type and use them. Then reading and math lessons may be individualized for computer sessions. Computers are usually only used at school. Another current trend is the elimination of recess or shortening of recess time for academics. Some schools, however, are bucking this trend as they realize the benefits of physical exercise during the school day. A very interesting trend found in some elementary schools is that no homework is being assigned.
Middle School Trends
You will find that middle schools are most like the ones you attended. Students will move from class to class for different subjects. The major difference is that close to 80% of the students’ work will be done on the computer, including most subject tests and homework. One change is that elements of algebra like ratio and proportion will be introduced in sixth-grade math. Also, some students will take Algebra 1 in eighth grade, letting them take more advanced math classes in high school.
High Schools Have More Advanced Offerings
Schools are offering more AP (Advanced Placement) and challenging courses. Besides doing much of their work on computers, students and parents can now access the students’ grades and assignments online. On an unfortunate note, cheating is rampant in high school according to most studies. This includes cheating on tests, copying homework, plagiarism, and the inappropriate use of AI Chatbot.
Beyond Academics
At almost every level of schooling, time is now being devoted to anti-bullying, anti-violence, conflict resolution, and tolerance for different lifestyle choices programs.
These high schoolers make music that transcends space and time.
by
Photo
Justin Fox Burks
By Alex Greene
Parents who, like me, hear sounds from their distant youth now celebrated by their kids might well wonder if the same labels apply. Case in point: what does “New Wave” mean anymore? Unsure if younger generations even know the genre, I asked myself that question recently as I spoke to the founders of Above Jupiter, a young band in every sense of the word. Instead of breaking out my retro categories, I asked them what they would call the choppy, stomping, synth-tinged, and hook-filled music they made — so reminiscent of sounds that captivated me in the 1980s. Graham Burks III, the group’s singer and drummer, didn’t miss a beat. “We’ve been calling it art pop.”
To clarify, he added, “We’re trying to make popular enjoyable music that doesn’t really fit into a category. It’s our own art. Other artists that used that label have been like, DEVO and David Bowie — artists that are hard to fit into a specific genre.”
Those two acts are perfect reference points for the fundamentals of their sound, as are influences they list on their website like Talking Heads, Beck, and Gorillaz. The end result is a beat-driven soundscape with equal parts slashing guitar, skronky synth, and cool singing that lives in a kind of timeless pop utopia. And it’s not only timeless, it’s literally ageless. One would never guess that these musicians are all between 14 and 16 years old.
Their debut single was celebrated last December in Chris McCoy’s Music Video Monday column for the Memphis Flyer. “‘Details’ is a super catchy rock song about ‘going off the rails’ if you don’t have the basics nailed now, which these kids definitely do,” McCoy wrote, noting that the group’s bassist and co-founder Noah Hand directed the video, being “a recent Indie Memphis Youth Film Festival alum who learned to animate at Cloud901.”
“I do film,” Hand told me, “and the video was all directed and written by me. I’m really glad how that turned out. It’s all my vision.”
The band, which also includes Zariya Scullark on guitar and Desmond Coppin
Coed
on keys, was started by Burks and Hand. “We were in fourth grade or fifth grade when we put together our first project, which was going to be a duo called the Breeze,” Burks noted. “That didn’t end up working out, but around that time we recorded four songs as demos. And as time went on we got our two other band members and the songs have just evolved into what they are now.”
As it turns out, all four of the musical wunderkinder attend the Stax Music Academy, but that’s been peripheral to the band’s formation. As Burks explained, “We all happen to attend Stax Academy but I wouldn’t say that the band was formed through Stax Academy. I mean, I’ve been playing with Desmond since I was four, and we were in our first band together. So really, it’s just a coincidence that we all ended up at Stax and I think it’s just because that’s a really amazing music program.”
Hand added, “I feel like the music of Stax and all that stuff that we play over there correlates with our music and affects us. The way we evolved was through that music.
And I’m very glad that we have that outlet, because it helps us learn the basics.”
That may be overly modest, as the group certainly leveled up from “basic” a while ago. Burks’ father, Graham Burks II, is also a celebrated musician around town, with a solo career of his own and a studio in his back house. He told me that “their listener base outside of Memphis and around the world has grown with each new release. They’ve had over 16,000 listeners around the world stream their music over 36,000 times.”
Certainly there’s some serious training and talent behind the group’s homerecorded tracks. Exhibit A was their debut EP, Demo, released this January. Given the polished final product, and the futuristic shimmer of tracks like “Meteor Beach” and “Midnight Sun,” that release’s title is somewhat ironic.
“The title track, ‘Demo,’ is something that we would show aspiring members of the band when we were trying to recruit them,” the younger Burks told me. “‘Demo’ was always the working title of that piece,
because it’s a demo of what we’re trying to go for. We were running with that title for long enough that it just kind of stuck. And I feel like it was a pretty interesting choice to make the title track of the EP an instrumental song. That means we can go in more directions with the EP instead of being locked into the style of a title track. Not everything has to be the same.”
That EP was ultimately incorporated into the band’s self-titled full-length album, released this May. The shimmering, glossyyet-surreal pop is even more evident in the newer collection, including as it does such tracks as the single “Lizard Freeway,” which asks the musical question, “Would you trust a lizard with a steering wheel?”
Meanwhile, album opener “Falling Archipelago” goes way beyond the rush of
By Alex Greene
the highway and opts instead for full-on world-building. As a synth wash opens like dawn through the forest, synthetic bird chirps herald the airy strum of folkrock guitar. That’s just before the drums crescendo and propel the whole thing back into high velocity — the band has created a world, only to promptly launch into orbit around it.
There are plenty more sonic surprises on the full-length release as well, ranging from the funk-rock of “Paranoid on Purpose” to the swinging “Skeleton Jazz Band.” As drummer Burks himself quipped, “Not everything has to be the same.” With that sentiment as a mission statement, expect a lot more not-thesame music from these young folks in the future.
Theatre Memphis sets the stage for the next generation of tech masters.
If you were to tap into the history of theatre, you would probably find yourself deeply intrigued by the centuries-old arena for unique storytelling. I, for one, have a newfound respect for this art platform that I have grown to adore over the years (more about that in a bit).
(From left to right) Gracen Rawlinson, Rylee Riegel, and Kaylee Webb
While I am an avid engager of storytelling experiences by way of many outlets — TV, radio, writings, oratory — there is something quite special about theatre that typically doesn’t offer up just average. But not in a sense that it is valued more or exclusively revered by a particular sociographic. You see, theatre has an extensive reputation for making a society of humans eager to promote their thrills, emotions, and even sometimes purpose.
Theatre has long been a familiar art appreciation established in my family’s history of creative outlets. Everything from musicals to plays, and even improv. I’ve had my share of high school musicals — to say the least — being both my children were heavily involved in a variety of departments including orchestra, vocals, and acting (sometimes multiple characters at once). And then, there are those we’ve witnessed together on main stages and are always in awe of how all the nuts and bolts of a story come to fruition.
I recently had the coolest opportunity to catch a glimpse into how a production is made with a behind-the-scenes experience at Theatre Memphis. Um, but I’m not talking about a simple walk-through to see everyone hard at work while I take moments to capture amazing photos of the jawdropping happenings at every turn. I was put to work! Yep. I took it upon myself to enroll into a Tech Crew training class offered, and boy, let’s just say, theatre squads deserve a true hi-five for the work entailed in bringing joy to others.
This brings me back to the ‘respect’ I mentioned earlier on. Theatre Memphis creates outstanding theatrical experiences to enrich the lives of audiences, participants, and the community as a whole. The 100-year-old community theatre is a staple in the Mid-South for producing one-of-akind art in the form of drama, and wants to ensure they continue presenting top-notch quality in actors, stage management, sound, lighting, and all that make up a memorable
By Erika Cain
performance that will keep folks laughing, crying, or even desiring to work in the field. Let’s just say I kinda cried on the inside during my tech crew hands-on training exhibition, but not from sadness. The Cinderella musical was currently on deck and it captioned the words “sensational” and “magical.” We all know the story as it goes — a classic saga of rags to romance. Left in wonderment from the moment I arrived all geared up for some excitement of seeing it all come together, we paired into small groups and the rest was painful amazement until the clock struck…well, what felt like midnight. Not at the fault of Theatre Memphis, but because many of us were not expecting such high intensive labor that requires climbing, crawling, pushing, pulling, squeezing, lifting, swinging, watching, waiting, running, building, repairing, sewing, costuming, and I’ll just stop right there. Some of this while positioned at the highest point of the auditorium, looking down at the orchestra pit and trying to think good thoughts.
All Photos By Erika Cain (Below, from left to right) Maggy Louderback and Gracen Rawlinson
Not so glamorous behind-the-scenes after all, but I am thrilled to get to do it all over again to perfect various techniques. It was so much fun and most memorable. Theatre crews will forever get a standing ovation from me.
What I found pretty striking was that the amazing staff truly loved their lane of expertise and they all professed to work within a wonderful community of likeminded artists, performers, musicians, staff, and volunteers. That also includes young up-and-comings.
Theatre Memphis has designed a Tech Academy for students ages 13-19, to learn about and participate in all realms of technical theatre: stage management, lighting, sound, sets/props, costumes, makeup, and more. Tech Academy was established in May 2022, and officially kicked off in August 2022. The year-round program offers 12 to 16 workshops with the goal of training teens within their area of interests and as a result, empowering the next generation of the theatre community.
“Kids and Tech are close to my heart,” says Becky Caspersen, director of Stage Management, Outreach, Education, and Volunteer Engagement at Theatre Memphis. “Most of the cadets have no idea what they are interested in until they try it. We give them multiple avenues to explore in the areas of Lighting, Sound, Costume, Makeup, Wigs, Scenic, Props, Stage Management and Front of house.”
Some students show up to just engage in workshops, which adds more skill to their theatre tool bag and allows them to take the knowledge back to their own schools or churches. “They can take free workshops; come in and volunteer to work alongside our designers; they can shadow, sub in or, when they’ve learned enough skills, can even be on crew for one of our season shows,” says Caspersen. “We love that, because that’s our little way of making things better for teachers and their school programs. Some kids just love being involved in theatre, and while they may not consider majoring in it in college or a university, they find a home, community, and fun in being backstage.”
Theatre Memphis wants to lay a solid foundation for teens by providing skills that are beneficial and much needed in
their projected field of study after high school. Caspersen is charged with ensuring teaching and learning opportunities lead to the success of students utilizing the arts to gain knowledge and acquired skills for their future journeys, and she doesn’t take it lightly. “Back in the Nineties, I was on the board for a new arts school in St. Louis called Dayspring School of the Arts,” she says. “In the second year, we implemented a backstage class and that was the beginning of my love of teaching kids about backstage arts. Those ‘AH-HA!’ moments of them trying something completely new, getting it, loving it, and making it their own, is quite addictive. Here in Memphis, we have a thriving arts and culture community and also a severe lack of designers and technicians to make it all happen. For some reason we can’t seem to coax these designers and technicians to move or stay in Memphis, so we’ve decided we need to ‘grow our own.’ And while we hope to raise a few of these local designers and maybe a few more technicians, we know that each and every one of the cadets will leave with a bigger love for the arts and will remain lifelong arts patrons with a distinct appreciation for what happens behind the scenes.”
Continued learning, growth, and engagement are important for Tech Academy to aid in the success of participants’ futures. “We added up to the age of 19, hoping teens taking a gap year might want to continue to try out new things while they are deciding on their future,” says Caspersen. “This year in fact, we will be hosting our first gap year intern. She will come in three days a week and learn side-by-side with all of our designers. Throughout the year, she will get to assist one show in costumes and one in lighting, as well as learn to weld and do some electrical work, and be introduced to vectorworks. It will be like an apprenticeship for her.”
Post Tech Academy, Theatre Memphis has a program called SkillSet, slated to launch soon with the first training session of the year in August. This is also a free training program for adults who want to be more involved both at Theatre Memphis and in the arts community at large. “There are lucrative jobs to be had backstage, theatre, and design beyond working in theatre,”
Gracen
Rawlinson
By Erika Cain
says Caspersen. “Big corporations all have a need for tech and A/V staff – Fedex has a whole team. Marketing these days is all based on storytelling and video (which needs lighting and sound people). But as for Tech Academy, we try to make it as easy for kids to get involved as we can — we expect nothing, give all the training for free, and honor those who go above and beyond. It’s really kind of a special program.”
I got a chance to meet some of the wonderfully talented and committed participants in the Tech Academy program and here’s what they had to say about their experience.
Kaylee Webb
Kaylee , a sophomore and homeschooler, has participated in Tech Academy for three years and is secretary of the council.
“Before Tech Academy, I had zero knowledge of how much work was put into shows and all the jobs backstage,” says Kaylee. “But now through all the workshops and how kind and open all the people here are, I can now go out to several theaters in the area and be confident in my lighting, costuming, and stage managing abilities, as well several other disciplines.” Kaylee is mostly excited about learning a variety of skills while having fun in a theatrical environment, as well as making friends who share the same hobbies and interests.
Maggy Louderback
Maggy is a college freshman at Ohio University, and has spent two years in Tech Academy.
“Tech Academy has been an incredible experience for me and has seriously helped to improve my technical skills,” says Maggy. “Unfortunately, my school does not have a very strong technical theatre program, but Tech Academy has helped to fill the gaps in my previous experience. I have had hands-on practice volunteering in the costume shop and working on the run crew of Mary Poppins Jr. This experience has helped make me a stronger techie.”
Maggy hopes to take away lots of experience that will help her later in the college technical theatre journey.
(From left to right)
Gracen Rawlinson, Maggy Louderback, Kaylee Webb, and Rylee Riegel.
By Erika Cain
Rylee Riegel
Rylee , a senior and homeschooler, is president of the council and is in her second year in Tech Academy.
“The workshops and special opportunities have really expanded my skills and abilities, giving me new ones that can be applied across many fields and circumstances — wiring a plug, paperwork, basic painting techniques, and teamwork and communication skills,” says Rylee. “We took a tour at the Germantown Community Theater, and then got to stay and watch a performance of Spamalot. It was amazing!”
With the national shortage of theater crew professionals, in part due to the post-Covid effect, securing qualifiable craftspeople, budgets, just to name a few, Rylee states, “I’m thrilled to be learning these skills, not only to be able to pursue a career in the backstage industry, but to build and adapt the skills to fit many possible careers.”
Gracen Rawlinson
What is the Purpose of
Gracen is a junior at Harding Academy with two years in Tech Academy.
“Tech Academy has helped shape my skill set by letting me volunteer in places like the costume shop, and by offering classes on what we are interested in learning,” says Gracen.
Gracen continues to look forward to meeting new friends and learning skills that will carry over into her future.
Theatre Memphis provides an array of community outreach and enrichment programs for young people — believing that the performing arts has the power to transform lives. The organization’s outreach and education programs work with adults, children, teachers, schools, communities, and organizations to bring the power of live theatre to everyone.
Up next is the Grease musical (one of my faves) that kicks off August 16th, and hey, maybe you’ll catch me backstage cheering on Rydell High. Or, perhaps sprinkling confetti from the ceiling tops. Hmmm.
To learn more about Theatre Memphis’ Tech Academy, visit theatrememphis.org.
HARMONY AND HERITAGE
A Music Educator’s Journey at Harding Academy
This month’s Outstanding Teacher, alumna Andrea Campbell, brings a unique blend of tradition and innovation to her role as director of vocal performance at Harding Academy.
students, vocal warmups and moments of quiet reflection prepare them for rehearsal.
Campbell’s journey, deeply rooted in her experiences as a student, shapes her approach to teaching music to young children. Reflecting on her time in middle and high school at Harding, she fondly remembers the impact of her teachers.
“The incredible teachers I’ve had taught me the importance of teaching the whole child, not just the content,” says Campbell. This belief drives her to build meaningful relationships with her students and their families, believing that genuine connections are the cornerstone of effective education.
“I always make it a point to emphasize with my students the importance of cherishing our time together every chance we have the opportunity to perform and fellowship with one another,” says Campbell. Her philosophy on music education for young children is grounded in the belief that music is omnipresent and impactful. “Music helps us express our feelings and moves us in unique ways,” she says. Her instruction is sequential, differentiated, and student-centered, adapting to make music accessible for students of all ages. She continually adjusts her teaching style by relying on student feedback to meet her students’ needs.
For younger students, physical warm-ups provide a necessary break from their regular classroom routine and help them focus on music. “I want to check in on the students emotionally and give them a space to step away from whatever the day brought before they walk into my classroom,” says Campbell.
Creating a classroom culture of grace, community, and a growth mindset is paramount.
Incorporating A Cappella music into her curriculum, she promotes ear training, audiation, and blend. “Being able to sing A Cappella allows for students to listen to themselves, reflect on their performances, and respond to what they’ve heard by improving and building upon what they’ve just done,” says Campbell.
A typical lesson begins with a warm-up tailored to the age group. For older
From day one, she encourages her students to explore their voices, take risks, and grow from mistakes. Campbell leads by example, sharing her mistakes and nervousness about new challenges and encouraging a supportive environment. “We warm up together, learn the notes together, make mistakes together, correct the notes together, and even critique each other with grace and humility,” she says.
Evaluation and support of her students’ musical development are conducted in real-time, whether through rehearsals or musical games. Immediate feedback and modeling correct techniques allow students to process information quickly and learn to assess themselves.
Her innovative approach includes developing elementary performances that mirror those of the upper school, promoting alignment and professionalism from an
early age. She also integrates technology in various ways, from exploring new warmups to combining music with other subjects, enhancing the learning experience.
Balancing Harding Academy’s rich musical traditions with new approaches, Campbell ensures innovations are introduced through familiar traditions, maintaining a connection to the school’s legacy. Engaging the broader school community and parents through diverse performance opportunities is a priority, creating a seamless experience for students and their families.
Facing challenges like helping students overcome self-doubt, Campbell strives to affirm their self-worth and value
by Krishnav Manga
continuously. A notable success story involved guiding a shy trio of girls to become confident performers. “Watching these girls grow in confidence was one of the highlights of my school year,” she says. This trio also won a nomination at the High School Musical Theatre Awards.
Long-term, she envisions the Harding Academy Vocal Department as a safe space for students to explore and nurture their musical abilities while creating meaningful fine arts experiences. “Harding is a school full of wonderfully gifted students who will impact the city of Memphis and this world in a special way,” says Campbell. “I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of their good story that’s still being written.”
“Education is not done in silos; it takes a village,” she says, crediting her mentors, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support and wisdom. Their influence is deeply felt in her classroom, where she continues to pour the same passion and dedication into her students that was instilled in her.
We want to shine a light on your child’s teacher, or even a teacher who made a difference in your life.
Submit your nomination today by emailing teacher@memphisparent.com.
(Left) Andrea Campbell, Director of Vocal Performance, Harding Academy Courtesy of Andrea Campbell
(Below) Seussical, vocally directed by Andrea Campbell Courtesy of Harding Academy
Say it isn’t so. The summer was a blur and most area schools are back in session or will be soon. But that doesn’t mean the sky is falling. It’s just a new season and means cooler temps and fun milestones are on the way. My girls – Ella and Bea – are rising to grades seventh and fourth, respectively, at Grace Saint Luke’s, and while they definitely have a case of the end-of-summer blues, I think deep down they are ready for some much-needed routines with their peers.
I get it, it’s hard to go from the looseygoosey summer vibe where sleeping in and staying up late are on the menu to a more regimented bedtime and wake-up call. That’s why it’s important to start going to bed routinely at least two weeks before school actually starts. Kids should also be waking up earlier too, so that first day isn’t hell on wheels. It’s also important to encourage the kiddos to start making their lunches and finding snacks that they like so you aren’t scrambling the night before. The same can be said about clothing. Your kid has grown and it’s time for some new clothes to usher in the new school year. Keep an eye out for tax-free days and back-to-school sales. The deals are out there. You just have to look and be savvy.
Here are some concrete suggestions to help your kids get ready to go back to school:
By Jeff Hulett
BACK TO SCHOOL ALREADY?
Some helpful tips to get your family on the same page.
♦ Soak up the sunshine one more time.
Summer is about playing outside and adventuring. Plan a quick trip or staycation in town to create a few more memories before the bell rings.
♦ Adjust your sleep schedule.
Don’t wait until the day before to try and get your kid to bed earlier. Start two weeks out and start in intervals. A good night of sleep is paramount to tackling the school day.
♦ Read each day.
Encourage your kids to read all summer long and into the dog days of summer. Visit the public library as part of your weekly summertime routine.
♦ Math is important, too.
Don’t sleep on your math facts, y’all. A little a day goes a long way.
♦ Monitor snacks and eating routines.
Remember, children may need to try a new food several times before they start to like it. Don’t give up on that healthy snack if they don’t like it at first. Fruits and veggies presented in a fun and appetizing way seem to work.
♦ Drive by the school.
Swing by the school and re-familiarize yourself with drop-off and pick-up routines.
♦ Check schedules.
Be prepared and know before you go. Your kids should review and familiarize themselves with their schedules. It’ll lessen the anxiety.
♦ Speak positively about school. Get pumped and remind them that fall break is only a few months away.
Jeff Hulett is a freelance writer, musician, and PR consultant in Memphis. He lives in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood with his wife Annie, two girls Ella and Beatrice, and dog Chalupa.
The same bowl of cereal can get boring after eating it for breakfast day in and day out. You may find yourself looking for something new and exciting to start your whole family’s morning off on the right foot.
Kids can be picky when it comes to breakfast foods, but this recipe for Sausage Fresh Toast Roll-Ups is a quick and easy way to fill their bellies with a taste of several flavors they may already love. It’s a perfect way to fill your morning with joy, no matter if the hours ahead are filled with work, school, or play.
A sizzling sausage link wrapped with French toast, it combines a favorite breakfast protein and traditional deliciousness in one little roll. Drizzled with warm maple syrup at the end, even adults can’t help but indulge in these breakfast bites.
This is a quick dish, too, using few kitchen utensils, which makes for more time in the morning to enjoy the little things that matter most like moments with family before rushing out the door. This recipe can also be made when your family is craving breakfast for dinner.
Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups
Servings: 12
• 12 sausage links
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 3 teaspoons almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 bread slices, crust removed, cut in half
• 3 tablespoons butter
• syrup
1. In a skillet, cook sausage links according to package directions. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, almond extract, and cinnamon.
3. Dip bread slice into egg mixture. Wrap bread slice around cooked sausage link, pressing seam to keep from unrolling. Repeat with remaining bread slices and sausage links.
4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Place roll-ups in a skillet, seam-side down, and cook until all sides are browned, approximately 10 minutes.
5. Drizzle with syrup.
Discover more fun and easy breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.
Courtesy of Family Features and Culinary.net.
Add a little joy and flavor to your busy school mornings with these quick and easy breakfast bites.
Perhaps you’re a fan of hams. Not talking about the stuff of sandwiches, which are just fine, but of the acting variety, like Jon Lovitz’ Master Thespian.
Hamminess is the sort of thing that performing arts teachers strive to purge from aspiring actors. That’s to be expected when one wishes to be “serious” about being on stage or screen. But children are inclined to histrionics as a matter of course, so acting teachers are on a mission to crush the creativity of youth! (See, that exclamation point is the punctuation version of overacting.)
Maybe you can blame the glut of kiddie fare on YouTube and the Disney Channel
RAISE HAMS , DON’T CURE THEM
Let the kiddos have their moments of drama — and comedy.
and countless other outlets for making it OK to lay it on thick. But don’t blame modern pop culture. Exaggeration has long been the norm. I have it on no authority whatsoever that little Willie Shakespeare would run around the house hollering “Fie, knave! Here I stabbeth thee!” Not bad for a kid, but he did improve his writing skills while finding all manner of ways to off scores of his characters.
This is all to encourage grandparents to allow their young descendants to go ahead and overplay to their heart’s content. I’m doing my part. The three-year-old likes a particular picture book and has developed her own shtick.
“I found something,” she announces. And then she makes like she’s concentrating mightily and moves her hands over the pictures and then declares, “It’s nothing!”
I will then react with maximum astonishment and say, “Wait! What do you mean? You just said you found something, so you have to tell me what it is!”
Barely suppressing giggles, she points and says, “OK, it’s this train.”
And then we repeat this routine, varying
only the particular object that amuses her. Although — and this continues to be part of the bit — she’ll deliberately misidentify the object. So we carry on with this partscripted and part-improv exercise. We both laugh a lot.
The 10-year-old is operating at a higher level, naturally. We’ve sent her to the Tennessee Shakespeare Company’s summer camps where she gets to swordfight with swim noodles, learn how to fall (dramatically), and declaim with words like forsooth and grievous (not the Star Wars baddie).
And there are few things quite as satisfying to this old ham as hearing his granddaughter intone: “We are such stuff as dreams are made on …”
I love the idea of getting them started in the field. I don’t care if they go on to win an Academy Award, although it would be nice to be thanked. They are learning expression and how to understand how and why people do things. But they also gain an understanding of how to be part of a team, and maybe they’ll take an interest in building sets or designing costumes or doing sound. Maybe they’ll want to become a stage manager, meaning they’ll learn how to think fast, solve problems quickly, and get things done. (The world needs more stage managers).
Whether they’re part of the cast or part of the crew, they’ll learn about stories and storytelling and history and so much of what literature can reveal to us.
And forsooth! They won’t need to be on their devices so much!!
Double hams. | Photo by Jon W. Sparks
AUGUST
3 • Saturday Summer Splash
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2ND H2OH!
SPLASH PARK
This garden-themed exhibit provides over 7,700 square feet of cool fun. With 40-plus sprayers including jet streams, mists, geysers, and water tunnels, children and their families enjoy an escape from the summer heat. Children’s Museum of Memphis, through September 2
17 • Saturday
Shelby County A to Z Community Expo
Overton Park Conservancy will pop up waterslides on the Greensward to celebrate the end of summer vacation.
Overton Park Greensward, August 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
16 • Friday Grease
The definitive musical “word,” Grease harkens back to the 1950s with hot-rodding and hip-shaking.
Theatre Memphis, August 16-September 8
This event will showcase everything the community has to offer from A to Z! Discover local businesses, organizations, and resources while enjoying live entertainment, book giveaways, interactive activities, and free services.
Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library, August 17, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.
18 • Sunday
Musical Magic (ages 5 and up)
Children can create their own stick wind chime with the Overton Park Conservancy. Rainbow Lake Playground at Overton Park, August 18, 10-11 a.m.
24 • Saturday
Teen Workshop: Marbled Paper Bookmaking (ages 14-18)
Participants in this workshop will learn the exciting techniques of water marbling and bookmaking. Take home a one-of-a-kind sketchbook,
with colorful pages just waiting to be filled with drawings. The theme of the night will be Elvis. Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will provide ASL tours for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, August 24, 1-4 p.m.
Splashin’ for a Cause
Join the zoo for a sunset splash and spend the evening at the Monogram Foods Love Kids Foundation Splash Park and Event Center. There you can interact with and marvel at the amazing Dusky gopher frogs and more.
Memphis Zoo, August 24
29 • Thursday
Whet Thursday
Experience the magic of metal with live demonstrations by skilled blacksmiths, showcasing their craft in action, and take a stroll through captivating galleries, featuring exhibitions that highlight the beauty and versatility of metal as an artistic medium.
Metal Museum, August 29, 5-8 p.m.
Love a little die a little and break the law.
Trey Milligan did all three in the summer before his 14th birthday.
From Sartoris Literary Group, the debut novel by Frank Murtaugh. Available NOW at Amazon.com. Paperback ($19.95) and eBook ($8.95).
available at Burke’s Book Store (936 S. Cooper) and Novel (387 Perkins Extd).
SEPTEMBER
8 • Sunday
Brad & Kristi Montague: Fail-a-bration Special Story Time
New York Times bestselling duo Brad and Kristi Montague are throwing a big party to celebrate failures, in this fun and affirming book that finds the joy in trying and learning, even if you don’t succeed.
Novel, September 8, 2 p.m.
14 • Saturday
Cooper-Young Festival
There’s no need to stay cooped up in your house when you can join in on the fun at the CooperYoung Festival, where art, music, and crafts come together to celebrate Memphis’ culture and heritage.
Cooper Young Historic District, September 14
Pancakes for Primates
Join the zoo’s primates for a delicious breakfast. Memphis Zoo, September 14
Latin Fest 901
19 • Thursday Mid-South Fair
Fairgoers will have the chance to enjoy more than 50 rides and a wide array of ground acts stationed around the property.
Landers Center, September 19-29
21 • Saturday Fantasy Faire
Enjoy a celebration of all things fantasy at the Cordova Library, featuring a special fantasythemed Storytime, local artists and vendors, demonstrations by Memphis Armored Fight Club, costume contest, crafts, games, and more.
Cordova Library Branch, September 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Memphis Pizza Festival
At the Inaugural Memphis Pizza Festival, local pizza makers make all types of pizza slices, full pies and other unique pizza-inspired creations. Admission includes unlimited samples of pizza. Other foods will also be available like pasta, meatballs, and a variety of desserts.
Agricenter International, September 21, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a family-oriented Latin festival that provides a place to gather with family and friends to listen and dance to live Latin music, taste some Latin food and drinks, crafts for kids, vendors, and fun for everyone in an open social space.
Overton Square, September 21, noon-6 p.m.
25 • Wednesday
Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert
This concert offers a captivating experience, blending a live orchestral performance of the iconic series soundtrack with an immersive twohour recap of the animated show’s three seasons on a full-size cinema screen.
Orpheum Theatre, September 25, 7:30 p.m.
28 • Saturday
Youth Workshop: Cardboard Bugs
In this two-part workshop, build bugs bigger and better than the ones found outdoors, using cardboard.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, September 28, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
By Abigail Morici
ONGOING
Orion Free Concert Series
The Orion Free Concert Series welcomes local, national, and international acts to the historic stage where legendary talent has left a timeless legacy. Find the full lineup at overtonparkshell.org/freeconcertseries.
Overton Park Shell, select dates
“Mission: Astronaut”
Mission: Astronaut is an interactive journey designed to give visitors a taste of life as an astronaut. Each section presents tasks that require an astronaut’s mindset to solve, using skills like engineering, physics, teamwork, and fun.
Museum of Science & History, through September 2
“ Wacky Hollow – Pollinators Edition”
Uncover the wacky facts about pollinators as you meander through the life-size maze. Children’s Museum of Memphis, through September 15
“On Paper!” is an interactive exhibition that celebrates the versatility and beauty of paper as a material, communication tool, and creativity and innovation initiator.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, on display through September 29
Family Yoga at the Garden
Family Yoga at the Garden is a fun way for parents to bond with their kids while learning simple yoga poses and relaxation techniques. This outdoor yoga class is open to all ages and family members, with a creative focus on children ages 1-6.
Memphis Botanic Garden, Mondays, 10-10:45 a.m.
Mudpie Mondays
Join Memphis Botanic Garden on the Mud Pie Patio in My Big Backyard for a mud-tastic time! Children can dig in and craft their own mud pie using natural materials. This event is canceled if it is raining. Free with Garden admission. No reservation is necessary.
Memphis Botanic Garden, Mondays through August 26, 10 a.m.-noon
Mini Masters (ages 2-4)
Introduce your little ones to the arts and nature with crafts, movement, and more.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
Kaleidoscope Club (ages 5-9)
Each week, participants will enjoy an art or horticulture project that sparks creativity and critical thinking.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m.
Get Outside! Fitness - Kidokinetics
Finding the right sports enrichment program for your child shouldn’t be a hassle. Kidokinetics of Memphis’ carefully designed PE programs offer numerous benefits that extend beyond physical fitness. Explore how Kidokinetics of Memphis sports enrichment programs can empower your child’s growth.
Shelby Farms Park, Wednesdays, 5 p.m., free Story Time
Enjoy stories, songs, art activities, and creative play that connect with Collierville history every Friday at the Morton Museum.
Morton Museum of Collierville History, Fridays, 10:30 a.m.
PAL (Play & Learn) Hours
Join Memphis Botanic Garden in My Big Backyard for a drop-in docent-led learning experience for kids and kids at heart. Naturethemed topics and activities vary.
Memphis Botanic Garden, Second Friday and Third Sunday through September, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Sow and Grow in the Garden (all ages)
Learn something new about gardening and horticulture every month while getting your hands dirty with a hands-on activity.
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, second Saturday of the month, 1-3 p.m.
Super Saturday
The Brooks offers free admission and artmaking during its monthly Super Saturdays. August’s theme is End of Summer and will feature bubbles and games. Test your color-mixing skills by making a variation of rainbow color wheels using markers and crayons.
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, first Saturday of the month, 10 a.m.-noon
Stax Family Day
Join the Stax for a fun-filled afternoon with free admission, games, activities, and music.
Stax Museum of American Soul Music, second Saturday of the month
Get Outside! Fitness - Kids’ Yoga (ages 5-14)
Stretch, breathe, move, dance, relax, create, and have fun. These classes will include ageappropriate yoga and movement, including breathing, poses, games, stories, music, relaxation, meditation, and more. Bring a yoga mat and water.
Shelby Farms Park, Sundays, 1 p.m., free
To learn more about upcoming events, visit our online calendar at memphisparent.com.
