Band Showcase: National Arts in Education Week
From the first warm-up to the last note of rehearsal, Mr. Colón’s band students are immersed in the art of music-making. Whether preparing for performances, refining technique, or learning new pieces, students develop discipline, teamwork, and a love for music that extends far beyond the classroom.
Senior Janaya shared, “Growing up, I suffered from severe social anxiety, not knowing how to fit in. After joining band and soon after chorus, I created new friendships, fantastic memories, and a passion I would’ve never had without Mr. Colón and several other fine art teachers throughout the county. Joining the fine arts program changed my life by giving me confidence, self-appreciation, and accomplishments I never thought possible, and I’m forever grateful that I did it.”
Fellow senior Tristan added, “Music performance started out from curiosity, but quickly transformed into a passion. There is nothing else like seeing jaws drop in a marching band show or tears in a concert hall. Music has power and I’m glad to own some of it.”
Through student voices like these, it’s clear the Ridgeview Band program is more than music; it’s a space where Panthers find confidence, build lifelong friendships, and experience the transformative power of the arts. #PanthersRISE #CCDS Fine Arts #NationalArtsInEducationWeek




For the past 14 years, Mr. Colón has shared his passion for music education, with 12 of those years dedicated to Ridgeview High School. A proud Panther alumnus from the Class of 2003, he returned to his alma mater to inspire the next generation of musicians. After graduating from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Brass Music Performance and a Minor in Professional Education, he combined his performance background with his commitment to teaching.
Mr. Colón believes, “Music is far more than performance—it is a universal language that inspires creativity, builds empathy, preserves culture, and strengthens community. In the classroom, music becomes a powerful tool for growth, well-being, and connection, giving students an outlet to express themselves while developing skills that last a lifetime.”
Through his leadership, the Ridgeview band program continues to thrive as a place where students grow as musicians, leaders, and Panthers. #PanthersRISE #CCDS Fine Arts #OneClay #NationalArtsInEducationWeek

“Theatre has made me an extrovert, helping me express myself in ways I would have never thought. It’s given me lifelong friends and memories to keep forever.” – Ann Netherton, RHS Senior.
In Ms. McDade’s theatre classes, students move beyond the basics to refine their craft and grow as performers, directors, and designers. With 20 years of teaching experience at Ridgeview, Ms. McDade creates a space where Panthers not only develop advanced theatre skills but also gain confidence, lasting friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling.
At RHS, theatre is about courage, creativity, and connection, skills that last far beyond the final curtain. 💙🐾 #PanthersRISE #nationalartsineducationweek #OneClay #CCDS Fine Arts
✨ The arts make RHS shine!






Today, we celebrate Ms. Lindsay McDade, who has dedicated 20 years of teaching theater, all at Ridgeview High School. A graduate of the University of Central Florida, Ms. McDade leads our theatre classes, guiding students as they refine their skills both on and off the stage.
She shares, “I love the creative process of theatre. I love seeing my students learn and grow in a subject that I am so passionate about. It is always so rewarding to see a student realize their talents and abilities.”
Through her dedication and passion, Ms. McDade continues to inspire Panthers to discover their voices, embrace their creativity, and shine in the spotlight.
The arts make RHS shine! #PanthersRISE #Nationalartsineducationweek #OneClay #CCDS Fine Arts












“The chorus program has shaped me into a more confident and expressive person, giving me a space where music becomes both my voice and my strength. It has taught me the value of teamwork, dedication, and vulnerability, and it continues to impact not just how I sing, but how I live.” – Alicia Quezada, RHS Senior
Under the leadership of Ms. Bice, who has dedicated 27 years of her teaching career to Ridgeview, chorus students gain more than musical skills. They learn confidence, expression, and the power of working together in harmony.
At RHS, chorus is more than performance; it’s a family where music builds connection, community, and Panther Pride. 💙🐾 #PanthersRISE #nationalartsineducation #OneClay #CCDS Fine Arts



Today’s spotlight is on our outstanding chorus teacher, Ms. Bice.
With an incredible 27 years of teaching, all at Ridgeview High School, Ms. Bice is a proud graduate of Florida State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Music Education. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to inspiring students through the power of song.
She believes that “through music, students not only learn but also develop the values and qualities that make them better human beings.” In her classroom, Panthers find their voices, gain confidence, and experience the joy of making music together.
Thanks to Ms. Bice’s passion and leadership, chorus at RHS is more than a class; it’s a community where students grow as musicians and as people.
The arts make RHS shine! #PanthersRISE #nationalartsineducationweek #OneClay #CCDS Fine Arts







This Thursday, 9/11, show your Panther Pride and honor our heroes by dressing out in red, white, and blue! ❤️🤍💙
We’ll be holding our annual Best Outfit Contest, with prizes for the most spirited and creative looks. Whether you go all out or add a patriotic touch, let’s fill the campus with color and pride!
🐾 Let’s see which Panthers take home the prizes this year! #PanthersRISE





“Theatre has personally helped me to find passion in something, all while making true connections with people. I wouldn't be who I am today without Theatre.” – Kenna Beasley, RHS Junior
In Ms. Wilson’s theatre classes, students gain more than performance skills—they discover their voices, build confidence, and form lasting connections with others. From scene work and stagecraft to costumes and set design, theatre at RHS is a place where creativity thrives and students grow both as artists and individuals. #PanthersRISE #OneClay #nationalartsineducationweek #CCDS Fine Arts
At RHS, theatre is more than a class—it’s a community where Panthers grow as artists and as individuals.





As part of celebrating the vibrant fine arts culture at Ridgeview, today we spotlight Ms. Wilson, one of our outstandingTheatre teachers!
Ms. Wilson is in her 8th year of teaching and is a proud graduate of The Florida State University, where she earned a degree in Theatre Studies with a minor in English.
She believes that “the arts, and particularly theatre, are a reflection of the culture and society they are made in. They express ideas, values, and desires that humanity has, and they teach students to identify and communicate all those things through theatre. It teaches them to be brave, curious, and empathetic towards the world around them.”
Through her passion and dedication, Ms. Wilson helps Panthers gain not only theatre skills, but also confidence, empathy, and a stronger voice both on and off the stage.
The arts make RHS shine! #PanthersRISE #OneClay #CCDS Fine Arts #NationalArtsinEducationWeek












“Taking art has helped me gain insight into what I want to do for a career one day. Art is a wondrous thing that can be made in many different and creative ways. Taking AP Drawing is helping me think through my artwork and ideas. I am very excited about my art and my future as an artist.” – Maggie McLaren, RHS Junior.
The creativity and talent of our Panthers shine through in every piece produced in Ms. Generazio’s art classes! From intricate graphite studies to colorful paintings and mixed media, students are exploring techniques that help them grow as artists and as individuals. #PanthersRISE #OneClay #CCDS Fine Arts #nationalartsineducation






