WHAT: The Lynwood Unified Board of Education will recognize eighth-graders Zion Bennett and Jose Laguna, who have been selected to journey to Rwanda from July 3-16 to showcase their acting and writing talents as a part of the District’s Building Relationships and Inspiring Dialogue through Global Exchange (BRIDGE) Theatre Project.

Bennett and Laguna were chosen from more than 500 District students who participate in the program. Bennett co-wrote an original play, “Great Minds Alike,” a story about female empowerment which will be performed at the annual Ubumuntu Arts Festival next month. In exchange, the Lynwood students will perform a play written by Rwandan students at the festival.

WHEN: Thursday, June 7

Board meeting begins and students recognized at 6 p.m.

Student media availability, 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Lynwood Unified School District Office
11321 Bullis Rd.
Lynwood, CA

MORE: A year ago, a play written by Abbott Elementary students was performed by Rwandan students at the Ubumuntu Arts Festival to rave reviews. This year is the first time Lynwood students have been invited to join the festival.

The District has partnered with the BRIDGE Theatre Project for four years, teaching students the basics of improvisation, character creation, writing conflict and dialogue, and how to collaborate with other writers.