First Eighth Grade Talent Show Scheduled for Friday

Members of the eighth grade student council have organized the inaugural eighth grade talent show at Westwood Jr./Sr. High School for Friday night.

Ten students are scheduled to perform in the event, mainly with vocals and piano. Quadhir Cline, secretary of the eighth grade class who is also hosting the talent show, said the group had five weeks to put together the event.

He said the idea came about after the high school hosted a talent show that didn't include eighth-graders. Cline said teacher Eric Delaney talked to a few students about putting together an eighth grade show. Cline presented the idea to adviser Courtney Jackson, who approved.

"Very quickly, many eighth-graders were willing to participate and the event got board approval," Cline said.

Jackson said the effort was driven by the students. "As the adviser, I lead a small group of students through fund-raising and events. The student representatives come up with ideas and produce the results. I am there for mediation and guidance," she said. "They have done a great job putting everything together, from organizing the date, sign-ups, ticket sales, food sales, programs, rehearsal time, theater space. I am very proud of their dedication."

Cline said the efforts have already paid off. The talent show has raised more than $300 in ticket sales so far. Tickets are $3 if pre-purchased and $5 at the door. Proceeds will go toward the eighth grade dance and carnival.

The talent show will run from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Campbell Auditorium of , 701 Ridgewood Road, Washington Township.