| The Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival Has Arrived! Join us this Wednesday, October 14th for an unforgettable celebration of culture, creativity, and community as the talented students of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts bring the Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival to life. Enjoy an evening filled with captivating performances, vibrant traditions, and meaningful opportunities to connect while honoring the rich contributions of Hispanic heritage. Admission is required for all guests ages 12 and older. We invite you to reserve your tickets in advance and select a contribution amount that is meaningful to you. The Class of 2028 has worked tirelessly to create a dynamic festival experience featuring live entertainment, interactive activities, artistic showcases, and something exciting for every member of the family. While you're there, be sure to visit the Silent Auction, featuring an outstanding collection of experiences, gift items, dining opportunities, and more. With perfect finds for the upcoming holiday season, many items are expected to attract significant interest, so don’t miss your chance to bid while supporting an important cause. And don't forget, Reflections submissions are due October 30, 2026. Encourage your student to participate in this nationally recognized arts program by exploring this year's theme: "What My Culture Means to Me." Through dance, film, literature, music, photography, and visual arts, students can showcase their creativity and share their unique perspectives. Come celebrate our exceptional scholar artists, support the Class of 2028, and help make this season one to remember. We look forward to seeing you at Sol a Sol! With shared purpose and gratitude, Jennifer Wheeler Hall |
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Newsletter Archive | Visit the PTSA Membership Toolkit to access last week's newsletter and archive. View Entire Newsletter | Click on 'View Entire Message' at the bottom of your email to access all of the articles. Tips | Click on newsletter section titles, graphics, and words in blue font for more helpful information. |
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THIS WEDNESDAY! | OCT. 14 |
Join us for Booker T.'s annual Hispanic Heritage Festival, Sol a Sol, on October 14 from 5:30 to 8:30 PM! Experience an exciting evening of student performances, art, culture, and community as students from every conservatory showcase their talents. Best of all, your support helps fund scholarships and senior traditions for the Class of 2028. Come celebrate, cheer on our students, and help make their future senior year unforgettable! Visit the Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival page on our website for details! |
| SOL A SOL HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL TICKETS In lieu of set-priced ticket sales for the Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival*, the PTSA and the Class of 2028 are gratefully accepting suggested donations of $20 for adults, $10 for students, or any amount that is meaningful to you. All proceeds will directly benefit the Class of 2028, helping fund senior year activities and provide scholarships so all students can participate in memorable senior experiences. Each ticket includes admission to all performances, including a special Talkback session with Booker T. distinguished Class of 2020 alumnus Laurel Mora in the Black Box Theater between performances of his original 2019 award-winning play, Nuestra Voz, and access to the festival in the Commons and Green Room. *Purchasing a ticket is required, but you get to choose the price! Children 12 years of age and younger do not need a ticket. Thank you for your generosity, your support of our students, and your belief in the power of arts education. Together, you are helping create opportunities and lasting memories for the Class of 2028. TICKETS(UPDATED LINK!) |
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| VOLUNTEER FOR SOL A SOL | OCT. 14 The Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival needs volunteers to help oversee the Commons and Green Room, assist performers and guests, and sell concessions and merchandise. Join us in making this celebration a success! Sign up today and help create an unforgettable experience for our students, families, and community. VOLUNTEER |
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| 2026-27 REFLECTIONS | WE NEED SUBMISSIONS! The deadline for the PTA Reflections Program is quickly approaching, and we urgently need student submissions! The 2026–27 Reflections theme is “What My Culture Means to Me.” Reflections is a wonderful opportunity for Booker T. scholar artists to showcase their creativity and be recognized for their work in dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts. If your student has been considering entering, now is the time to act. Don't miss the chance to represent Booker T. and advance to the next level of this prestigious national arts program. Submit your entry today! 🎨🎭🎶📸✍️ Entries are now being accepted and are due by October 30. Be sure to review the FAQs and guidelines to help your creative vision shine. Questions? | Email Kira McCoy, the PTSA Reflections Program Chair. REFLECTIONS ENTRY FORM | DUE OCTOBER 30 |
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An Update on Ms. Townsel: Let’s Show Her Our Booker T. Love Once More! |
| Ms. Townsel recently underwent another medical procedure and is now recovering at home. She and her medical team are awaiting further test results to help guide her ongoing care. We’re wishing Ms. Townsel a smooth recovery and sending her lots of love as she takes time to rest and regain her strength on medical leave. Her ongoing medical journey will bring additional expenses, including unexpected costs, and she would be deeply grateful for the financial support of our caring Booker T. family. |
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Once again, this is an opportunity for our wonderful community to come together and help ease some of that financial burden. As many of you know, Ms. Townsel is one of the hardest-working teachers on the BTW campus. Beyond teaching her AP classes, she inspires students through thoughtful discussions on a wide range of topics, both inside and outside the classroom. She also devotes countless hours to supporting our seniors through the college application process, writing recommendation letters to help them pursue their dreams. Even in the days leading up to her recent procedure, she continued putting her students first, making sure their needs were taken care of. That is who she is: a dedicated educator who gives so much of herself to her students and our community. Now, it’s our turn to take care of her. Please consider contributing to support Ms. Townsel as she continues her medical journey. Every contribution, no matter the amount, can help ease her financial burden and remind her that she is not alone. Let’s come together once again to show Ms. Townsel the love, generosity, and support that make the Booker T. community so special. Your kindness means the world to her! 💗 |
ALL-SCHOOL DANCE | NOV. 7 |
Get ready for a night of color, music, and celebration! Join us on Saturday, November 7, from 8:00 to 11:00 PM for Rio de Carnival, this year's Student Council-selected theme. Enjoy a live DJ, salsa lessons, carnival mask-making, festive photo ops, refreshments, and an unforgettable evening with friends. - TICKETS | Purchase pre-sale tickets on this form.
- Student Tickets: Pre-sale tickets can be purchased online through October 30 for $25. Students can also buy tickets at the door for $35.
- Guest Tickets:Click on this form to purchase guest tickets. A limited number of tickets will be available for students to bring a guest that does not attend BTWHSPVA. Guests must complete a guest approval form and have it signed by their school administration and the BTW Administration: Principal Williams, Dean Countryman, or Dr. Barrett, before they can purchase a ticket for their non-BTW guest. The form must be uploaded to their guest ticket purchase in order to proceed to check out. Guest Tickets are $25 each. The deadline to purchase is October 30.
- ID REQUIRED | Students and guests must bring their student ID to check in at the dance. (They do not need to wear their ID.)
- DRESS CODE | Semi-Formal / Dress to Impress attire is recommended. Dress code will be enforced.
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| Dr. Sheryl Collins is an educational consultant and leadership coach with more than twenty years of experience supporting students, educators, and school communities. Throughout her career, she has served as a teacher, principal, Executive Director, and Chief Programs Officer, working closely with schools and school leaders to strengthen instructional practices and improve outcomes for students. Her work reflects a deep commitment to educational excellence, equity, and the belief that strong schools are built through strong relationships. |
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Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Dr. Collins is the proud parent of Booker T Washington student SaVon, a sophomore in the Theater Conservatory. Becoming part of the Booker T. community has been a meaningful experience for her family, and serving with the PTSA allows her to give back to a school that has already provided her son with extraordinary opportunities to grow as an artist and scholar. She values the powerful partnership between families, educators, and the broader community in supporting student success. As the PTSA 5th VP of Community and Programs, Dr. Collins helps guide initiatives that strengthen connections among students, families, staff, and supporters of Booker T. Her work focuses on building a welcoming, collaborative environment where every member of the community feels seen, supported, and engaged. In addition to her PTSA service, Dr. Collins has contributed to scholarship committees and participated in efforts that champion students and promote educational excellence. Her dedication to young people extends far beyond the classroom, reflecting her belief in the transformative power of opportunity and access. In her spare time, Dr. Collins enjoys traveling, roller skating, spending time with family and friends, and listening to music. Her favorite Booker T program is Showcase because it gives families the chance to experience the extraordinary talent, creativity, and dedication of students across all conservatories. To her, it beautifully represents what makes Booker T such a special place. |
As 5th VP of Community & Programs, Sheryl Collins brings enthusiasm, creativity, and a strong commitment to building meaningful connections throughout the Booker T. community. She believes that a vibrant school experience extends beyond the classroom, and she works tirelessly to create programs and opportunities that engage, support, and inspire students, families, and staff alike. We are incredibly grateful to have Sheryl serving on our PTSA Board this year. Her leadership and dedication help strengthen the sense of community that makes Booker T. so special. Through her efforts, families are welcomed, partnerships are nurtured, and programs continue to flourish, enriching the experience of every student. Thank you, Sheryl, for your energy, vision, and unwavering commitment to fostering a connected and thriving Booker T. community! Feel free to reach out to Dr. Sheryl Collins with questions about PTSA programs, community initiatives, volunteer opportunities, or ways to get involved. She would love to help you connect and make a difference at Booker T.! |
To become a donor or for general questions, donate by clicking the link below or contact us at btwhspvaptsa@gmail.com. |
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 2026-27 SUSTAINING SPONSORS |
- October 14 (AS, S) All-School and Senior Panorama Photo
- October 14 (AS) Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival
- October 15-16 (M) RJAM Premier Ensemble Concert
- October 22-29 (T) Play | Hamlet ESP
- November 4 (AS) How to Pay for College Workshop
- November 7 (M) Jazz and Brass in the Park
- November 7 (AS) All-School Dance
- November 16-19 (AS) Custodial & Cafeteria Appreciation Pie Drive
- November 18-20 (S) Senior College Showcase Week
- November 21-29 (AS) Thanksgiving Break
- December 2-3 (M) Fall Classics
- December 8 (AS) Magnet Open House
- December 9-10 (M) Winter Grand Concert
- December 9-11 (VA) Art Market
- December 19-January 5 (AS) Winter Break
The calendar is subject to change. Please check the school calendar to confirm. Codes: (AS) All School, (A) Academic Conservatory, (D) Dance Conservatory, (J) Juniors, (M) Music Conservatory, (PS) Prospective Students, (RS) Rising Students, (T) Theatre Conservatory, (UP) Upperclassman, (UN) Underclassman, (VA) Visual Arts Conservatory, (S) Seniors, (SO) Sophomores, (F) Faculty, (FR) Freshmen 2026-27 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar |
Information in this section has been shared before, but we are keeping it here so you have easy access to important details and helpful links. |
| RJAM PREMIER ENSEMBLE CONCERT SERIES Get ready for an incredible two‑night musical experience as our RJAM Premier Ensembles take the stage in the Black Box Theater on Thursday, Oct. 15 and Friday, Oct. 16 at 7 PM. Each evening will feature a completely unique performance, giving you two opportunities to enjoy the remarkable talent, creativity, and artistry of our students. These concerts shine a spotlight on the hard work and passion that define the RJAM program, and they promise to be unforgettable nights of music. TICKETS We hope you will join us for this special celebration of our students and their extraordinary sound. It is going to be an amazing pair of performances! |
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| HAMLET ESP | OCT. 22-23, 28-29 | 7 PM
The Montgomery Arts TheaterTickets available online or at the door $5 students & $10* adults *Does not include special event: Booker T., Baker & Beyond extras on Friday, Oct. 23. |
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| SPECIAL EVENT: BOOKER T., BAKER, AND BEYOND | OCT. 23-24 A message from Paul Baker's daughter, Robyn Baker Flatt: Hello Baker Theater family, colleagues, and friends, We’re excited to invite you to Booker T, Baker & Beyond, a two-day celebration of Paul Baker’s legacy, his ideas, and the generations of artists and educators he continues to inspire. Join us October 23 and 24 at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts for performances, conversations, the Baker Idea Symposium, and a look at where Baker’s ideas can take us next. Friday evening features Paul Baker’s HAMLET ESP. Saturday brings together Bakerites, educators, artists, students, and friends for a full day of discussion, reflection, and exploration. Ticket Information:
Sponsor Ticket:$40 (All access pass to Baker events on Oct. 23 and 24: Includes one (1) ticket to Hamlet ESP in reserved seating block on Friday and preshow reception, as well as one (1) ticket to Booker T., Baker & Beyond! on Saturday.)
Friday Night Only:$20 (Includes one (1) ticket to Hamlet ESP in reserved seating block on Friday, Oct. 23, and preshow reception.)
Saturday Symposium:$20 (Includes admission for one (1) person to the Booker T., Baker & Beyond! event from 9am to 4pm on Saturday Oct. 24.) CLICK HERE TO VIEW SCHEDULE & PURCHASE TICKETS We hope you’ll join us as we reconnect with multiple generations of Bakerites, celebrate an extraordinary legacy, and look toward what comes next. Looking forward to seeing you there, Robyn Baker Flatt |
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| ARTS MAGNET 50TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT SITE The Arts Magnet 50th Anniversary Event Site is officially live, and we invite our entire community to join us throughout the year as we celebrate five decades of creativity, excellence, and innovation. The site will highlight special events, showcase milestone moments, and introduce you to stories spanning all 50 years of the school’s history. It is the central hub for staying connected, discovering upcoming celebrations, and engaging with the remarkable legacy that continues to shape Arts Magnet today. We hope you will visit often and be part of this historic year. |
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| STUDENT PROGRAM ACTIVITY GRANTS The PTSA is proud to support the students and official student organizations/clubs of BTWHSPVA with Student Program Activity Grants. Faculty and student club leaders are encouraged to apply for funding of up to $500 to help meet specific club needs that enhance the student experience and support their creative endeavors. Applications are now open. Submissions received by the 30th of each month will be considered for the following month’s award cycle. APPLICATION LINK |
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| PTSA GOOGLE DRIVE PHOTO FOLDER Parents, upload your photos to the new PTSA Google Drive Photo Folder and help us capture the magic happening all year at Booker T. Parents always take the best pictures, and we would love to showcase moments from every event. Bookmark the Photo folder and start sharing your favorite snapshots! Instructions to upload photos | Once in the folder, click the "+ New" tab on the left, then click "File upload". Or hold down the Alt and c keys, then click U. NOTE | Please name each photo before uploading noting what/who is depicted in the photo. Ex: "Senior WW David Hall". Thank you! |
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| PTSA CREATIVE COLLECTIVE Students are invited to submit any creative pieces they have made, written, produced, or performed. Whether it is artwork, choreography, music, film, photography, or creative writing, we would love to highlight the incredible talent of our scholar artists within the weekly PTSA Newsletter, the PTSA website, and on social media. Parents & Faculty, please encourage students to share their work and help us celebrate the creativity that makes Booker T so special! CREATIVE COLLECTIVE SUBMISSION FORM |
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| PTSA MEMBERSHIPS & CLASS DUES We encourage all new and returning BTW families to purchase PTSA memberships and pay class dues for the 2026–27 school year. Class dues support each grade’s Senior Fund, helping create the celebrations and traditions students enjoy when they reach 12th grade. Contributing now sets the foundation for a strong senior year later. Starting the year with your PTSA membership and class dues ensures smooth planning and gives our PTSA the resources to support all Rising Pegasi from day one. Click the graphics below to purchase! |
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REMEMBER, when you pay into Class Dues it also includes a PTSA membership for your student! |
| CLASS DONATIONS Missed contributing to class dues in previous years, or have family members who want to join in? It’s never too late to support your class! Every contribution helps fund the senior year activities and celebrations that make this milestone unforgettable. Click your class year below to give in any amount and help keep the tradition strong. |
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| The PTSA Weekly Newsletter is produced and published by 2026-27 BTWHSPVA PTSA 3rd VP of Communications, David Hall. For questions or issues, please complete the PTSA Inquiry Form. Thank you for your engagement & support! |
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