Gooden School Students Show Off at Annual Talent Show

 The Gooden School recently held its annual Talent Show, a school tradition since this private school was founded 35 years ago. In 1975, the school was named after Episcopal Bishop Gooden, who was committed to the belief that all children should receive a quality education and he fervently believed that the unique nature of every individual should be known and developed.

That “unique nature of every individual” was encouraged and nurtured again on March 30 this year.

According to head of school, Patty Patano, “More than 40 students participated in the event, with acts ranging from classical piano and violin to gymnastics, a painting demonstration by a first grader and a kindergartener demonstrating how to effectively kick a soccer ball.”

No auditions were necessary. All students were invited to participate, and all the acts were warmly received by students and parents alike. Due to the nature of the inclusiveness of the event, Patano didn’t select any one student’s performance as best, instead providing highlights and a few photos.

Memorable moments included, third grader, Kelly Sweeney, singing “Our Song” by Taylor Swift; Kindergartner Ryan Ohannessian telling jokes, with help from his classmate, Caden Brown; and fourth grader, Christina Fan on keyboard, playing “tempo de Menuetto” flawlessly.

“This is an amazing little show," said Kim Parry, a parent of two Gooden School students. "Any child is welcome to perform or show-off any talent they may have. The neatest thing that always strikes me is the way that all the kids root for each other. You see the older kids cheering for all of the little ones (no matter how good or not-so-good they may be), and the little ones idolizing their "big buddies". It is one of the times that you truly see this wonderful little school 'family' come together."

“Life at The Gooden School in Sierra Madre is a rare and wonderful experience. It is a challenging independent school academic setting; it is a hub of creativity as demonstrated by our fine music and art programs; it is compassionate and far-reaching made possible through all of our activities devoted to making the world a better place,” per Patano’s welcome letter on the school’s website.

Some of Gooden's "rare and wonderful" experience includes taking time for fun. Kudos to all 40 talented participants!