RRHS Teacher Awarded the Arizona Thespians Teacher of the Year Award

RRHS teacher and Hawk Theatre Director Joseph Ellison has been awarded the Arizona Thespians Teacher of the Year Award for the south region.

Ellison was notified via email by Steve Abaroa of the Arizona Thespians Executive Board.  “This award is given annually to a teacher that demonstrates exceptional courage and devotion to the Performing Arts Program at a school. It is a prestigious honor that recognizes the best of the best within our ranks.”

The award is typically presented at the annual State Thespian Festival, which was canceled for 2020.  Although disappointed he would not be able to accept the award in person, Ellison expressed his gratitude for being recognized.  “Words cannot express the pride I feel for receiving this award. I owe so much to my students and this award is a reflection on their hard work just as much as mine. Theatre is a collaboration of heart and soul and my students show that with trust and hard work you can truly bring out creation in any circumstance.”

Ellison has directed the Hawk Theatre Company for the past four years, his second year under principal Hector Estrada.  Estrada spoke highly of Ellison’s achievement, “What a tremendous accomplishment and recognition. Both you and your students deserve this as you all epitomize the district mantra, #SCV35AbovetheBar with the attitude of “The Show Must Go On!”

Mr. Ellison was recently interviewed and can be viewed on #SCV35AboveTheBar on the SCV35 Communications YouTube channel.  https://youtu.be/NqkGR6iVs8E