Overton High School Principal Dr. Williams along with Sr. Band Director Juan Valdez, student musicians and the entire Wolverine community excitedly welcomed Latin GRAMMY® winning singer-songwriter and GRAMMY® nominated Noel Schajris and the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation to their school Feb. 27. The foundation donated $40,000 for an educational experience that included a donation of musical instruments to Overton High School. 

The Creative and Performing Arts Program at Overton High School is the heartbeat of the school community, thriving with lively artistic expression and creativity. Developed with a deep understanding of the diverse talents within the student body, the program stands as a testament to the commitment of nurturing and celebrating the artistic spirit that resides within each student. This program is not just about fostering talent; it's about empowering the students to explore, create, and express themselves freely in a supportive and nurturing environment. 

“We are proud of our talented young musicians and dedicated instructors at Overton High School,” said MSCS Interim Superintendent Toni Williams. “We are incredibly grateful to the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation for their generous donation and see this collaboration as a testament to the power of working together to help our students reach their full potential.” These instruments will not only enhance our music education programming but will also serve as catalysts for the creative evolution of future generations of music creators at Overton High School. With every note played, every brushstroke painted, and every word written, we are not just creating art; we are shaping futures and building legacies that will resonate for years to come. 

The program featured a musical performance by Noel Schajris, along with a Q&A session with students moderated by Jessica Rodríguez co-host of Univision’s top-rated morning show, “Despierta América.”  

"We all know how important art and music are in our lives; in my personal case, it has been a lifesaver, a friend, a love, and even the doctor during many important moments. This is an important opportunity for the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation to share with those who will undoubtedly carry that torch of hope, the kids, the future generations. Surely we will draw wonderful conclusions and certainties from this event; always with truth and love as our banner,” said Schajris.

Latin GRAMMY In The Schools is an educational program that informs and connects music students with professionals in the Latin music industry and supports educational music departments that have financial limitations. The Foundation invites artists and professional musicians to visit middle and high schools or music education institutions to share their personal stories and experiences with students that highlight the effort it takes to overcome career obstacles. The goal is for students to learn to optimize the educational opportunities presented to them, giving them an advantage and strong academic preparation to be able to compete in the music industry. 

*Photo Credits: Greg Campbell/Getty Images for the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation