Eleanor Roosevelt High School welcomes Mrs. Julie Ann Hawk, a new addition to the Music and Arts Department this year. Well-versed in all aspects of music and theatre, she teaches all of the Drama classes at ERHS. Including directing and producing the upcoming school musical, Cinderella, Mrs. Hawk has major plans to work with students to improve the drama program.

Since playing an active role in her own high school’s performing arts program, Mrs. Hawk said she has been sure she wanted to be a drama teacher. Her career in education began 17 years ago when she began teaching private vocal and acting lessons. 

Following her two years teaching at New York University, this year marks Mrs. Hawk’s 11th year teaching grades K-12. Although she spends most of weekdays teaching drama classes at ERHS, Mrs. Hawk said she enjoys directing and performing in theatre shows. She added that being a part of theatre production involves many jobs including music directing and conducting, instrumentalist, singing, producing, and, of course, acting.

Aside from experience, Mrs. Hawk has developed her vast knowledge of theatre through college education. She completed her undergraduate’s degree at Mercyhurst College and received her bachelor’s degree in music. Afterwards, she attended New York University and Edinboro University, where she earned her master’s degree in musical theatre and education, respectively. 

Mrs. Hawk describes her teaching style as “easygoing” and “laidback,” yet also “strict.” It is apparent how supportive and innovative she is in relation to the theatrical ideas of her students. Junior Jennifer Fuentes noted that “she encourages mistakes” and is “incredibly fair.” A sophomore enrolled in her Drama 1 class added that “she is nice”.