Ogden Theater Gives Free Tickets to Top Students

When Liliana Schaeffer struggled academically at Ben Lomond High School, she needed more than just tutoring. This month, her remarkable turnaround earned her recognition as student of the month and four free tickets to a professional theater performance, thanks to a new partnership between Ogden City School District and Onstage Ogden.

The program launches at a time when arts access can feel like a luxury, not a learning tool. But Andrew Barrett Watson of Onstage Ogden sees it differently: "Access to the arts makes better students."

Each month, students from five Ogden schools receive recognition for academic progress, overcoming challenges, or persistence in vocational programs. Now those honors come with a cultural experience to share with family or friends.

Alex Padilla from George Washington High overcame credit deficits and behavior challenges to get back on track for graduation. At Otech, students excelling in barbering programs are being recognized alongside welding students at Post High who've shown exceptional persistence.

Why This Inspires

The partnership works because it addresses two needs at once. Students who've worked hard to improve get recognition that extends beyond a certificate, while schools gain a new tool to boost motivation and attendance.

Onstage Ogden, which has operated in the city for decades, covers the cost of the tickets themselves. The district takes on no financial obligation, making the program sustainable and focused purely on student growth.

Teachers report that arts exposure builds confidence, particularly for students in high-need settings. Ceramics teacher Logan Iverson demonstrated during the board meeting how creative projects engage students who might struggle in traditional academic formats.

The voucher program runs through May, giving recognized students choices from Onstage Ogden's full season schedule. Board members praised both the individual student achievements and the creative approach to supporting classroom culture.

What makes this partnership special is its foundation: the belief that students who overcome obstacles deserve more than acknowledgment. They deserve experiences that open doors, spark imagination, and remind them that their communities believe in their potential.

For students like Liliana, Alex, and their peers across Ogden schools, a night at the theater represents something bigger than entertainment. It's proof that when you work hard to change your story, people notice and celebrate with you.