If students think about all the theater productions at Sage Creek over the years, they’ll tie them back to the teacher who produced them all: Mrs. Jillian Porter has worked here for 11 years and has created unforgettable moments with her class. This year will be her final year at SCHS. 

Mrs. Porter will be leaving to work at Kelly Elementary School with her kids to continue her passion for performance and her music career. Although she is happy to take the next step, she and all who she has impacted are reflecting on the memories and changes that will come with it. 

“I’ve had the privilege of working with so many inspiring, unique, and talented individuals,” Porter said. “Helping students find ‘their thing’ in high school has been an incredibly rewarding experience.” 

Any student who has been her student knows how passionate she is about her productions, class, and, most importantly, her students. Many students will miss her, but they will also have the opportunity to see the new changes in the years to come. 

“I have loved working with Ms. Porter, especially while training to take over as house manager next year,” Lee Rodriguez said. “But I am so excited to work with Ms. Hunter and hope to form a good connection.” 

Mrs. Sarah Hunter, a current English teacher on campus, will replace Mrs. Porter next year. She has been passionate about drama since she was young, making her the perfect choice to continue our drama program. 

Her work as an English teacher in SCHS has been the longest break from theater she has had. She is eager to continue her passion, this time teaching it at the school she loves. 

“The opportunity to continue what Mrs. Porter-Eshelman started as the theater teacher is incredibly exciting for me,” Mrs. Hunter said. 

Although there is much excitement with this new job, there are also challenges with filling shoes for such an important class. 

“I’ll be learning how to run an entire program on my feet, which is something that I am both nervous and excited about.” Mrs. Hunter explains. She is eager to face the challenges head-on to make the class consistent and better for her students. 

Mrs. Hunter hopes to grow the theater community into a safe and inclusive environment for all students who want to express themselves through the arts. 

“There are many possibilities that I think we can explore to expand the program and be more involved in the community.” Mrs. Hunter says. 

With someone so experienced, our theater class is sure to only get better with each passing year. Mrs. Porter leaves a message of advice to all of her students for when she’s gone: 

“Remember the lessons you learn in a high school drama class, they help shape your character. Keep showing up with heart and curiosity,” Mrs. Porter said. “Continue to seek out communities that reflect the spirit of the arts: spaces rooted in empathy, integrity, and an appreciation for the power of imagination.”