Timothy Farson, Principal SCPA

academic achievement to a highly diverse student body--I maintain the highest expectations for every student and staff member on our campus because we truly have something magical happening on our campus. Raised in a small rural town in Ohio, I found the arts to be one of the few places I could embrace who I was, and learn to be comfortable within my own skin. In many ways, the arts became the place I could develop my beliefs, my wonderings, and my voice. Meggitt, and her inspirational belief in me and my leadership as drama club president. I certainly wasn’t the best actor, nor the most confident young man, but she believed in me and created the space for opportunity. Reflection on these positive and powerful past experiences instantly create the impetus for much of my work as a leader at one of the best arts schools in the nation. I personally understand the role arts can play in developing a powerful student voice—whether it be on a canvas or on a stage or leading student government. I began my university career at Kent State University in Philosophy. Craving a more urban and artistic community, I transferred into the Philosophy program at New York University. My life abruptly changed on September 11, 2001, however, having witnessed the falling of the World Trade Centers. It was my first true encounter with death and a first personal realization of humanity’s universal craving for meaningful connection and voice. It is only later in life that I realized the powerful influence art has in establishing this connection and voice—voices often for the silenced. In 2009, I began my teaching career as an English and middle school Science teacher at SDSCPA. I have enjoyed being involved in many aspects of the SDSCPA student experience as the Journalism Adviser, ASB Student Government Adviser, SSC member, Department Chair and so on. Since that time, I have embraced and protected what I believe is a magical learning experience unlike any other for all students. My classroom philosophy that engaging hearts engages mind transcends into my work with our staff and community. I will tirelessly work to build connections with our SDSCPA community, advocates, and arts leaders from around the country. I am a philosopher by nature and always reflecting on way to increase student voice, create innovative learning environments, and most importantly create sustainable infrastructures in a sometimes shaky world of education funding. I know and understand the power of connection and uniting people in a shared vision for the hope and promise of a transformational arts and academic education. Humbled by the honor of being your principal, I pledge to keep the SDSCPA vision robust and alive, lead through compassion for all staff and students, and maintain a reflective lens focusing on equity and opportunity for all of our young artists and scholars. And from this, I will tirelessly advocate for the SDSCPA students, staff, and community to ensure a safe and diverse environment for creative exploration, rigorous learning and training, and opportunities to create powerful connections through the arts. Our students don't just love to be artists, they have to be artists. With dedication and heart,

Timothy Farson
Principal, San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts