Vicksburg Spotlight Initiative

Vicksburg Spotlight Initiative
Youth Application Form
Program Overview and Commitment
"Where Youth Take Center Stage"
The Vicksburg Spotlight Initiative is a nine-month, cohort-based youth development and community theater program serving students ages 13-17. The program uses theater production as a tool to build confidence, accountability, communication skills, and positive peer relationships.
Students participate in every aspect of creating a theater production, including acting, writing, directing, technical theater, design, marketing, and front-of-house operations. No prior theater experience is required or expected.
Participation in this program is a commitment. Students and parents or guardians should review the information below carefully before applying.
Meeting Schedule
The program meets twice per month:
- First Saturday of each month (9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.)
- The third Tuesday of each month (4:30-6:30 p.m.)
Any schedule changes due to holidays, inclement weather, or unforeseen circumstances will be communicated in advance, and make-up meetings will be scheduled at a later date and time to accommodate participants as reasonably as possible.
Behavioral Wellness Sessions (Required)
Behavioral wellness sessions are a required component of the Vicksburg Spotlight Initiative and are designed to support communication, emotional regulation, and positive collaboration between students and families. Sessions are educational in nature, facilitated by a licensed behavioral health professional, and require parent or guardian participation.
Parents or guardians may initiate requests for additional support or resources at any time during the program. If, during regular program sessions, behaviors or concerns arise that may benefit from additional support, these will be discussed privately and collaboratively with the parent or guardian on an individual basis. Participation in these sessions does not involve evaluation, diagnosis or clinical assessment.

Student Behavior and Discipline
The Vicksburg Spotlight Initiative is a structured, collaborative learning environment. Students are expected to participate respectfully, follow program guidelines, and contribute positively to group activities.
Behavior concerns are addressed using a restorative and educational approach, which may include verbal redirection, reflection conversations, and parent or guardian communication. Disciplinary actions are not punitive and are intended to support learning, safety, and continued participation. Repeated or serious behavior concerns may require a parent conference, a behavior support plan, or program removal if necessary.

5. What are some highlights or positive experiences you have had at school?
6. What challenges have you faced at school this year?
7. How would you describe your relationships with teachers or school staff?
8. How would you describe your peer or friend relationships at school?
LEARNING STYLE AND PERSONAL GROWTH
9. How do you usually learn best? (Select all that apply)

ListeningHands-onReading/WritingGroup workOne-on-one
10. What is something you would like to work on or improve during this program?
11. How do you usually respond when something feels challenging or frustrating?
PARENT OR GUARDIAN PERSPECTIVE
12. Why do you believe this program would be a good fit for your child?
13. How would you describe your child's relationship with school and learning?
14. What goals do you have for your child's participation in the Vicksburg Spotlight Initiative?
READING AND DISCUSSION COMMITMENT
This program includes guided reading and group discussion.
Do you agree to support your child's participation in required reading and discussions?

YesNo
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND SIGNATURES
Submission of this application does not guarantee acceptance. Final selection is determined
following a panel interview.
Parent or Guardian Signature:

Clear
Date:

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Student Signature:

Clear
Date:

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Should be Empty: