Iliana Z. Gamez/The Daily Dispatch

On Tuesday May 16, 2006 Omega Alpha Academy fifth graders presented a play based on the Civil War. Mrs. Vasquez's fifth grade class had been learning about slavery and through this play named, "The Runaways" they portrayed the life of slaves during the Civil War period.

This presentation started as a Reader's Theater in class and soon became an extensive play created by the students. The students worked together and brought about ideas for their costumes, props, and backdrops.

The play was presented and liked so well that Mrs. Vasquez's students were asked to present the play again to other grade levels on Friday May 19, 2006. Mrs. Vasquez said, "'I was really impressed with the dedication of these students." "I gave them the chance to take ownership of this play by allowing them to elaborate it themselves and I am very proud of their accomplishments." Mrs. Vasquez's 5a class would like to give special thanks to the following staff members and parents involved in this program: Mr. Robles (High School Teacher, who was the vocal instructor, Mrs. Peggy Gallegher (Reading Specialist) the Drama Coach, Mr. Teran (High School Art Teacher) and his High School Art class who created the scenery.

Parents of the student participants were responsible for the costumes. The students involved in the play were:

€ Narrator- Itzamara Elias

€ Todd- Izaac Chavez

€ Abby- Karen Frisby

€ Lesly-Kayla Parra

€ Charles- Angel Quintero

€ Martha- Carolina Davalos

€ Mink- Adrian Martinez

€ Patricia- Diana L. Manquero

€ Servants: Maria Valencia, Jaylene Carillo and Amairany Barrios

€ Programs: Pankhuri Kharbanda and Francelia Hernandez

€ Ushers: Cesar Morales and Luis Daniel

€ Stage Crew: Oscar Cruz, Luis Leos, Jonathan Rivera and Dagoberto Cruz