Northridge Middle School troupe praised after state runner‑up finish; students perform scene ahead of Friday show

The Middlebury School Board on March 3 recognized the Northridge Middle School theatre troupe for a season that culminated in a state competition finish and spotlighted student reflections on the program.

At the start of the meeting, a representative introduced several troupe members and praised their work ethic and community service. "For the past five years, our middle school troupe has been chartered as a member of the International Thespian Society," the presenter said, noting students grow in performance, community service, outreach and participation. She also cited the troupe's recent volunteer projects with the Middlebury food pantry and with Phil's Friends, a cancer outreach organization.

Students described the personal and social benefits of participating. "Troop helps people build friendships because being in a scene with someone, it makes them easier to talk to," said Reese Holland, an eighth grader. Landon Beach, also in eighth grade, said theater offers "non‑sport activities for kids" and develops teamwork, public speaking, time management and technical skills such as lighting and sound.

The troupe performed a short comedic excerpt from Need a Lift during the meeting to demonstrate the group's stage work. Dr. Snyder and others commended the students for their discipline and teamwork.

Administrators provided logistics for the troupe's upcoming public performances. Dr. Augustine said the shows are Friday and Saturday at 7:00 p.m. at the Northridge Performing Arts Center and that tickets are available online; she added that administrators and board members are entitled to comp tickets if they email to arrange them. The board offered verbal congratulations before resuming its agenda.

The board did not take any formal policy action related to the troupe during the meeting; the recognition and student remarks were part of the superintendent's report and the agenda's "Middlebury Moment."