Teachers and students came together to showcase their abilities during the talent show held on Jan. 13 in the auditorium. The show was a preview for the “I am” initiative held in February to encourage self identity.

“The purpose of [the event] is just to show the many talents we have in the school without excluding anyone,” “I AM” initiative sponsor Robyn West said.

There were a wide variety of acts, including a teacher group dance, singers, poets, and much more. The talent show was open to anyone, and admission was free.

“It was very interesting watching all that the students could do, from a range of flying lights to singing songs with their friends,” audience member Alli Bellandi said.

The “I am” initiative was started to promote self value and confidence. There are many events held throughout the year that students can participate in.

“The goal was to celebrate everyone for their uniqueness, some people had clear talents and others just tried. The most important thing is that you know [your importance]. Not everyone needs to stand up in front of an audience,” West said.

Each act expressed something different that connected them to the audience. “The acts were definitely unique to the performer and they showed their own personality through that,” Bellandi added.

It takes courage to get up on stage and perform your talent, and not everyone can do it with ease.

“I would say to just do it. The first step is to do it, and then there will be those [people] that recognize you as the remarkable person that you are,” West said.

In February, the “I am” initiative is planning to focus on pursuing equity and executing excellence. There are going to be photo collages of students exemplifying character.

“Everyone is unique and special in some way,” West added.