Intro the Theatre
Dear Parents,
Hello! I am your student’s Drama teacher at Shakopee West Jr. High. I
would like to inform you of some things that will be happening this semester.
In this class we may watch scenes from a television show or a movie.
The purpose of this would be to show examples of things like a set, set
dressing, props and costumes. Also, we may watch a famous actor in a scene
from a movie or television show to study their acting style. I want you to know
that these scenes will in no way be inappropriate for the students.
As stated in the class expectations sheet (other side), all students are
required to perform in a number of ways during this class. It is understandable
for some to be hesitant or nervous in the beginning, and we will do everything
we can to make that person more comfortable and teach them tools to
manage their “stage fright.” That being said, performances will be evaluated
according the Minnesota State Standards for Fine Arts (Theatre). This is a High
School level class and it is very rigorous. Not all kids are natural performers, so
they need to practice (study) just like other classes to be successful.
As a drama class, we have a wonderful opportunity to see a live
performance and attend a workshop held by professional actors/directors. I
will send home a letter regarding the ticket prices and dates, but I want you to
know that we have integrated the performance into our curriculum so it is
strongly encouraged for all students to attend the performance.
Thanks for you time, please read and sign the form below.
Julie Gestner
Intro the Theatre
Shakopee West Jr. High
jgestner@shakopee.k12.mn.us
I have read the letter above and will allow my child _____________________to
participate in this class.
Parent or Guardian Signature
9th Grade Drama Class Expectations –Gestner
Student expectations:
 Each student must be in the classroom and prepared for class when the bell rings. If the
student is not in the classroom at that time, they will be counted tardy and will result in a
discipline action (see below).
 Each student will be expected to participate in the class activities. Class participation
will be weighted heavily when factoring the final grade.
 Each student will be respectful of the teacher and each other. In particular during
performances and discussions.
Classroom expectations:
 In Drama class, each student will be asked to “Perform” a number of times. It is important
for students to know that intolerance of any kind will not be accepted.
PERFORMANCES ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL STUDENTS.
 Make-up work: Each student is responsible for acquiring and completing the work they
missed. A student may perform 1 day after the due date. All late performances
are worth half credit. If a student chooses not to perform on their scheduled
day, they will perform the next day for half credit. NO EXCEPTIONS. After
this performance for half credit, they can choose to schedule a time to perform
individually for me outside of class to re-gain full credit for the performance.
 Discipline: We have discussed appropriate behavior in class and the specific expectations
of behavior in this heavily performance based class. Students will be respectful of their
peers and teacher at all times. The following are some consequences that may happen due
to inappropriate behavior in this class:
o verbal warning
o parent/teacher/student conference to form a new plan
o call home
o detention with the teacher after/before school
o referral to administration (consequences are decided upon between
administration, the teacher and the parents)
GRADING SCALE:
A 93-100
B+ 87-89
C+ 77-79
D+ 67-69
A- 90-92
B 83-86
C 73-76
D 63-66
B- 80-82
C- 70-72
D- 60-62
REMINDER: This is a high school fine arts class. Successful completion of this semester counts as one Fine
Arts credit on your high school transcript. With this in mind, the coursework and pace will reflect a typical
high school class—be prepared to work the entire class period on you own project without having to be
prompted to begin work or to continue working. You will get out of this class the effort you put into it and
your performances and grade will reflect your dedication. Also worth noting, students will be asked to
perform in a variety of different ways, many of which include a significant amount of memorization. Please
understand that although work time will be given during class, you will also need to work
outside of class to ensure your success. If you need anything regarding our class, feel free to contact
me via email or by phone.