El Camino High School drama teacher Mike DiSalvo, center, accepts a donation for classroom improvement from Carmichael Kiwanians Jen Hawley and Len Ohlendorf. DiSalvo’s students applaud the presentation.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - The Kiwanis Club of Carmichael has donated $7,500 to aid drama studies at El Camino High School.

Via the Kiwanians’ Impact Program, the grant will transform a decades-old classroom into a modern performance facility for use by hundreds of 14- to 18-year-olds.

“The money will help us create a theater-like space where students can be comfortable performing,” said El Camino High Drama Department director Mike DiSalvo. “It’s important they see we’re taking them seriously. That way, they’re motivated to take their studies more seriously.”

The project aims to simulate “black box theater” elements in the classroom. Upgrades include new paint, curtains, lighting and a small stage. Funding came about through DiSalvo’s direction of an outside musical program that included a Kiwanis Club member’s daughter.

The mother (former club President Jen Hawley) asked DiSalvo if a donation would help drama studies at his school. The club’s $7,500 gift came from fundraisers such as the Taste of Carmichael, a winter crab feed and Christmas candy sales.

“Our school’s one of the oldest in our district,” said teacher DiSalvo. “Any opportunity to upgrade a classroom is welcome and appreciated. The kids are excited to be supported by the community.”

Project work will begin before the end of the 2024 school year. The theater space will be in use for 2025 drama classes.

Learn about Carmichael Kiwanis at www.KiwanisClubOfCarmichael.com.