South Plantation High School
Plantation, FL
When Jason began teaching theatre at South Plantation High School 18 years ago, he soon realized by observing how deaf students communicate that the needs of students could be served through Deaf Theatre and incorporated American Sign Language into every mainstage production, ensuring that all shows are available to everyone. He has been a foster parent to over 35 children and as an advocate for foster children he facilitated the adoption of one student just short of her eighteenth birthday. Jason teaches to appreciate not only the arts, but the needs of the community. He provides a summer camp for ages 7-13 with scholarships for foster children and real work experience for his high school students. He found ways to support homeless students, raise funds and awareness for AIDS, cancer, developmental disabilities, mental health, and ensure graduation for those struggling academically. Upon graduation, his students share a resounding appreciation for the family, community, and life lessons they take with them. Many fulfill lifelong dreams in theatre, but all of them develop a work ethic they can utilize regardless of their future careers, believing that taking risks without fear of failure is a culture that should be embraced.