Ms. Grace has been teaching drama, vocal music and other electives for 24 years, 20 of those being at JA. Ms. Grace provides an environment of inclusivity and a safe space for students to explore their abilities while building skills. One of the things she loves most is that students get to be in a musical by simply signing up for the class. Ms. Grace sponsors both Tri-M Music Honor Society and National Thespian honor society. Both of these clubs perform monthly and provide spportunities for students to experience live perfomances on a regular basis. She did her undergraduate studies at CU Denver, Fort Hays, and Witchita State. She received a Masters in Educational Leadership from Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design.
Performing Arts Department
Mission: Empower learners with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
This department aligns with the Habits of Creative Engagement:
Expression (Voice)
Explore multiple ideas
Problem solving & practice
Inquiry
Experiment
Improvise
Persist
Reflect
Performing Arts
At Jefferson Academy Secondary, the performing arts offer students a unique avenue to express their creativity and develop their talents. Our diverse curriculum includes classes such as Choir, Band, Orchestra, Guitar Class, Musical Theater, Tech Theater, Exploration in Drama, Theater Arts, Music Appreciation, Music Technology, Music Theory, American Pop Culture and Music History, allowing students to immerse themselves in the rich world of music.
For those interested in learning to play an instrument, our Junior High Guitar class is perfect for developing foundational skills, while our Drama program empowers students to explore storytelling and performance techniques. Additionally, our Junior High Music Technology course introduces students to the exciting realm of digital music production.
Beyond the classroom, students can join the Pep Band Club, Tri M Music Honors Society and Drama Club where they can showcase their talents at school events and cultivate school spirit through energetic performances.
Within the Performing Arts at Jefferson Academy, students make lifelong friendships and create unforgettable experiences on stage! Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, there’s a welcoming place for you in our thriving arts community.
Performing Arts Department Members
Ms. Andrea Grace
Mrs. Laura Wiarda
Mrs. Wiarda (we- are- duh) is an enthusiastic music educator with over a decade of experience in teaching music and other electives. A passionate musician herself, Mrs. Wiarda presents many fun opportunities for young musicians to hear professional ensembles as she plays the clarinet in both the Regis University Concert Band and the Broomfield Symphony.
Wiarda holds two Bachelor’s degrees in Music and Clarinet Performance from Truman State University in Missouri and a Master’s in Music Education Degree from Western Illinois University. She believes that every student has the potential to express themselves through music and strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Mrs. Wiarda enjoys reading, golfing, playing music, going to the mountains and spending time with her husband.