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Penguin Project » SWISD Penguin Project

SWISD Penguin Project

The SWISD Penguin Project header
The Southwest ISD Penguin Project provides an opportunity for children with special needs to participate in a unique theatrical experience and an outlet for revealing their creativity and talents.
 
The Penguin Project is unique because all the roles are filled by young artists with special needs. They are joined on stage by a dedicated group of “peer mentors” – children the same age who have volunteered to work side-by-side with them through 4 months of rehearsals and through the final performance.
 
The program provides a supportive environment for children with special needs to explore their creative talents.  It has also demonstrated that participation in the performing arts has therapeutic value by enhancing social interaction, communication skills, self-confidence, and self-esteem. The impact of the program has reached beyond the stage to create a social network for children who previously had very few friends and limited social opportunities.
The Southwest ISD Penguin Project strives to provide an opportunity for children with special needs to participate in a unique theatrical experience and an outlet for revealing their creativity and talents.
Established in 2004, The Penguin Project has evolved into a national program, with Chapter sites throughout the United States. The program provides a supportive environment for children with special needs to explore their creative talents.  It has also demonstrated that participation in the performing arts has therapeutic value by enhancing social interaction, communication skills, self-confidence, and self-esteem. The impact of the program has reached beyond the stage to create a social network for children who previously had very few friends and limited social opportunities.
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Fiesta Medal delivery for in-district only. Outside orders must be picked up at SWISD Fine Arts Department office.