Walnut High teacher wins BRAVO Award

Walnut High School drama teacher Joanne Karr has been named a 2009 Music Center BRAVO Award recipient.

The coveted award recognizes exemplary teachers and schools for creativity, innovation, and excellence in arts education.

She is celebrating her 30^th year in education and ninth-year at Walnut High. 

The 27^th annual awards gala held at the Walt Disney Concert Hall on March 10 was hosted by acclaimed producer/director Garry Marshall.  

Karr received the award in the Theater Arts Specialist category. 

She received a beautiful BRAVO sculpture and $2000 cash prize to benefit the school's drama program. 

"The arts help people give meaning to their lives, and all students need them," Karr said.

Ninety eight teachers and schools from across Los Angeles County competed for awards this year.  After an initial review, 18 finalists were chosen to be visited by the team of judges. 

Senior Matthew Guest credits his drama teacher for turning him into the actor he is today.

 He is currently appearing as messenger boy Rolf Gruber in the musical running through March 21.

More than 20 "Joanne supporters" including several alumni students and parents attended the awards ceremony stood and cheered when her name was announced as a BRAVO recipient.

 "My students, colleagues and friends, especially those that are here tonight, are the ones who make me a great teacher," Karr said in her acceptance speech.

"Sophocles said, 'Whoever neglects the arts when he is young has lost the past and is dead to the future.'  As BRAVO teachers we represent all those who ensure that will not happen!" added Karr.