AATE 2025 National Conference

Launching and sustaining a theater program in an under-resourced public school presents unique challenges—especially when funding, space, and administrative buy-in are limited. This hands-on workshop equips educators with practical strategies, a take-home toolkit, and templates to develop a thriving program that serves their students and communities. With a strong emphasis on culturally responsive pedagogy and trauma-informed practices, this session explores how to create an inclusive, student-centered program that fosters creativity, engagement, and belonging. Participants will gain actionable insights on: Maximizing Limited Resources: Finding creative solutions for space, materials, and production needs. Sustaining Funding & Partnerships: Budgeting strategies, grant-writing tips, and building partnerships with local organizations, including universities. Using Data for Advocacy & Growth: Collecting qualitative and quantitative data to secure administrative buy-in, attract grants, and expand resources. Student Engagement & Program Culture: Trauma-informed strategies to build a program that students invest in and take ownership of. Marketing & Branding Your Program: Creating an identity and leveraging community outreach to boost participation and support. This highly interactive, solution-oriented session ensures that participants leave with concrete tools, strategies, and next steps to develop and sustain theater programs in any environment.