Armijo High’s welding program — one of FSUSD’s many CTE program offerings — put their skills to work behind the scenes
Fairfield, CA (October 1, 2026) – Armijo High School’s Armijo Theatre Productions (ATP) had an incredible showing at this past weekend’s Arty Awards, earning 14 nominations and five awards recognizing excellence in high school and community performing arts programs across Solano, Napa and Yolo counties.
Armijo’s five awards included Best Play Overall and Directing for Arsenic and Old Lace, Supporting actress for Leilani Douglas, class of 2027*, Lighting design for Seth Ponce, class of 2026, and Set Design for Tom Newman, welding teacher at Armijo.
“It is a true privilege and joy to work with our Armijo Theatre community,” said theatre teacher Sheena Beeson. “These awards celebrate not only their creative efforts, but the collaborative skills that make theatre such a powerful learning experience.”
The production also highlighted the collaboration between theatre and Career Technical Education (CTE) in FSUSD. Welding Teacher Thomas Newman supports ATP’s technical production, working alongside students to design and build sets.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to be involved and support such a great theatre program at Armijo High,” said Newman. “It’s the students who deserve the real praise. I just designed the set, but it was the students who turned the blank canvas I gave them into what it became.”
Armijo High Principal Matt Powell and FSUSD Superintendent Jennifer Sachs celebrated the students and staff whose work continues to elevate the program.
“We are incredibly proud of our students and the dedication of the entire ATP team,” said Principal Powell. “This recognition is a wonderful reflection of our talented students and all of the great things happening at Armijo High.”
FSUSD Superintendent Jennifer Sachs added, “The arts give students opportunities to discover what they are capable of accomplishing. We congratulate Armijo Theatre Productions on this outstanding achievement!”
Stay attuned to upcoming ATP productions at: https://onthestage.tickets/armijo-high-school1/season