Kennesaw Mountain High School’s Drama Department has been named one of 21 winners in the Disney on Broadway School of Excellence Program, a national initiative that recognizes middle and high schools for outstanding student-led involvement in theatre production. The program is a collaboration between the Education Theatre Foundation, Disney Theatrical Group, and Music Theatre International.
The award includes a grant to cover licensing and materials for staging a Disney musical during the 2025-2026 school year. Winners also receive access to exclusive webinars with industry professionals.
Director of Theatre Dawn Parker commented on the recognition: “Every day I come to work loving what I do and doing what I love with some of the best students that I could ask for. My students are so dedicated to what they do both on and off the stage, and any recognition they can receive for their hard work and talent is so deserving!”
The department will present Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. as part of its participation in the program. Students manage both performance and technical aspects, including set construction, lighting, sound, props, choreography assistance, as well as costume care through KMHS’s Transition Academy.
Director Parker added: “The legacy these students are leaving for those after them is strong and something I am very proud of. As their director, I will always be their number-one fan!”
Alice in Wonderland Jr. will also be offered as a field trip opportunity for Cobb elementary and middle school students through the Young Audience children’s theatre program.
“We are so fortunate to be supported not only by our amazing parents and Booster Board but also by our administrators, particularly Principal Stark, and the Fine Arts Department and staff. We are truly a family at KMHS Fine Arts, and I look forward to an amazing year and celebrating this accomplishment,” said Director Parker about the upcoming production season.
