Max Schwartz has been building something special at Morey Middle School. His drama program has become a haven for students searching for their people, their voice and their confidence. From Wonka Jr. to 9 Worst Breakups and 10 Ways to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse, to Morey's original production Waiting for the Bus (which earned a spot at ThesCon!) Max has directed multiple productions each year, each one a testament to his unwavering dedication, passion and creative vision.
But the magic isn't just in the shows themselves. It's in what happens behind the curtain.
"I just love working with middle schoolers," Max said. "I think that they have really amazing and unique voices, and so letting them kind of express themselves is the part that I'm passionate about being a theater teacher."
That passion is evident in every rehearsal, every performance and every interaction with his students. Max brings energy, creativity and genuine care to the drama program, inspiring young artists to explore their talents and grow both personally and artistically. His commitment extends far beyond blocking scenes and running tech. He's fostering a supportive community where every student feels valued and encouraged to take risks.
"He makes us feel accepted and lets us be ourselves," one student explains. Another adds, "Being on stage, you can try new things and be a confident person."
For Max, theater’s greatest gift is its versatility.
"There's so many different ways to be creative and have fun," he said. "And there's so many different ways that kids express that. So giving them as many different opportunities as possible, whether it's through acting, writing or set design, props, costumes, tech or academics… that’s what drives my approach to teaching.”
The results speak for themselves. Year after year, students who struggle to find their place elsewhere discover belonging inside drama class. They learn that mistakes aren't failures, but opportunities. As one student puts it, "He makes rehearsals fun, like, if we make a mistake, he says it's okay and to move on. He also lets you participate in your own way."
When asked about how drama helps students find confidence and belonging, Max reflects on the collaborative nature of theater.
"With theater, you inherently have to work together. So I think finding a sense of belonging through teamwork is awesome," he said.
He pauses, then shares a story that captures what makes his work so meaningful, "Every single year there seems to be somebody that just shocks me with how much confidence they build in taking risks on stage. I've had a student who was suffering from a lot of anxiety and lack of self-confidence. And two years later, she was singing a solo in the middle of the stage and being our student director. So I think it's magic!"
Magic, indeed. Max Schwartz embodies what it means to be a passionate educator, someone whose impact extends far beyond lesson plans and curtain calls. He's creating a space where middle schoolers can discover who they are, find their people, and build the confidence to step into the spotlight.