2009 Oakland Fine Arts Summer School Finally::Time of My Life

As some of you guys were aware I participated again this year in the Oakland Fine Arts Summer School program here in Oakland as the photography instructor for 4th and 5th graders. Words cannot express how blessed I was for the opportunity to work with such wonderful kids doing what I love. Although the program ran for 4 weeks I'd like to share just the last two days of the program, one in which the kids put on a showcase event for their parents. This year there were some wonderful instructors in dance and theater not to mention an incredible set and costume design instructor. Since the death of Michael Jackson took place during the program the dance instructor appropriately put together a performance in his honor and the kids absolutely rocked it.

While documenting the showcase I couldn't help but be overwhelmed with a feeling of "My kids are all grown up!!!" I was so proud of all the kids who spent countless hours rehearsing and practicing. This definitely has to be one of the all time highlights of my life.

Lastly check out this article from the SF Chronicle about the program. Too bad they were just there for the morning program (I taught in the afternoon program).

See for yourself!

This year's theme for the Parks and Rec Department


















Some of the boys doing their version of MJ's "I'll be there"