Ever wonder how a teacher can truly light up a classroom? Sharon Overton, a Chicago educator, is doing just that, preparing her students for a vibrant performance of ‘The Wiz’ before the holiday break. This story is a peek into her world, brought to you by Chalkbeat Chicago, which delivers daily news on Chicago Public Schools (you can sign up for their free newsletter!).
Inside the Ray Graham Training School's gymnasium, the energy was palpable. Students, buzzing with excitement, rehearsed lines and perfected costumes for their rendition of ‘The Wiz,’ a musical that reimagines ‘The Wizard of Oz’ with a soulful twist. At the heart of it all was Sharon Toi Overton, a special education and theater teacher working with 12th graders. She's been putting on plays with her students for the past five years.
During a recent Friday rehearsal, Overton was in her element, directing her students, refining their lines, and ensuring every costume detail was perfect. The debut performance was set for December 19th at King College Prep High School's auditorium.
But Overton's passion for the arts runs deep. A Chicago native, she grew up in a musical family, with a father who played the saxophone and a pianist mother. She took up singing and drumming, eventually becoming a lead singer in an all-girl rock and roll band in the 1970s.
Before launching her teaching career in 2000, Overton was an established actress in Chicago, performing with the Black Ensemble Theater, a company known for its plays and educational programs. She became a teaching artist through their program and began working with women with disabilities at the Ada S. McKinley Community Services. Over the last quarter-century, Overton has seamlessly blended her love for the arts with her dedication to students with disabilities.
So, how did she become a teacher?
In 1995, Overton returned to Chicago from Los Angeles to support her mother after a stroke. She auditioned for and joined the Black Ensemble Theater. Jackie Taylor, the theater's founder and a former Chicago Public Schools teacher, developed educational programs and trained artists to become teaching artists. Overton decided to further her education, earning a master's in special education from the University of Illinois-Chicago. She fell in love with the environment at Ray Graham, thanks to Principal Thomas and Vice Principal Buckner, and the exceptional staff.
What makes a play special?
Overton's favorite play to perform with her students is ‘The Lion King.’ She explained that it's impactful because it encompasses drama, comedy, and tragedy, reflecting the full spectrum of life and the triumph over adversity.
And this is the part most people miss...
Overton's own school experiences shaped her approach. She loved school, except for math. Growing up in Hyde Park, she attended Ray Elementary School and Hyde Park Academy High School. She experienced integration firsthand, with friends from diverse backgrounds. While school was enjoyable, it was also a time of social and political upheaval, with sit-ins, walkouts, and protests.
She was always immersed in music, singing jazz before kindergarten. She participated in school plays throughout her early years.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Overton addresses current events in her classroom, explaining them and laying a foundation for understanding. She values collaboration with parents, understanding their perspectives and expanding on the information at the students' comprehension levels.
What's the best advice she's ever received?
Her mother's wisdom: “You can get angry, but make sure you don’t stay angry.”
What has made her a better educator?
She draws inspiration from Jean Piaget, emphasizing the importance of setting high, yet achievable, expectations for students.
How does she unwind?
Singing, dancing, massages, traveling, and spending time with lifelong friends.
What do you think? How do you think teachers can best navigate challenging topics in the classroom while supporting their students? Share your thoughts in the comments!
