NESA Weekly Update

The Weight of Words: Precision and the Danger of Diluting Meaning

A few years ago, a student (not at NESA) dropped something on the ground. I followed her, calling her name, but she had earbuds in and couldn't hear me. I caught up and lightly tapped her shoulder to get her attention. She whipped around and screamed that I had assaulted her. When she realized I was simply returning her dropped item, she became grateful and apologized. That moment has stayed with me. "Assault" is a heavy accusation, one with legal consequences.

In Texas, the legal definition of assault, generally speaking, involves intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily harm, or intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another. My gentle tap, clearly intended to gain attention, hardly met this definition.

I'm seeing similar situations play out in society more and more. While I feel deeply for and will always fight for any of our students who have been genuinely assaulted, injured, or mistreated, I worry about the true assaults that are lost in the cacophony of accusations, many of which are like my experience with the student – misunderstandings blown out of proportion.

This isn't about minimizing the very real trauma of assault. It's about recognizing the power of language and the importance of precision. When we use powerful or legal terms loosely, we dilute their meaning and diminish the experiences of those who have truly suffered. We create a climate where it becomes harder to distinguish between genuine harm and perceived offense.

As artists, we understand the power of curation. We meticulously craft images, develop characters, control tone and lighting, refine sound, and strive for perfect turnout. We are masters of nuance and detail. This same level of care must extend to our language.

As artists and leaders, we must curate our words with the same precision we apply to our art. We must be very careful that we are not diluting powerful words by making hollow accusations. Inflammatory language can have unintended consequences, creating confusion, division, and even silencing legitimate concerns.

Let us strive for clarity and accuracy in our communication. Let us use words responsibly, reserving powerful terms for situations that truly warrant them. Only then can we ensure that the voices of those who have genuinely experienced harm are heard and that justice is served. Let us choose our words wisely, for they carry a weight that can either build bridges or tear them down.

Have you ever wished you could wear a little piece of magic? A tangible representation of the spirit that crackles in the halls of LEE High School, the very essence of NESA itself? Well, gather 'round, dreamers, because your wish is about to be granted!

A celestial alignment has occurred, a spark of inspiration ignited by the brilliant Norris Family, and from that spark, a collection of NESA apparel has materialized, ready to cloak you in comfort and school pride. Forget mundane threads; these are garments woven with pure, unadulterated whimsy.

Imagine:

• The Midnight Comet Pullover: A sleek, black 1/4 zip Sport-Tek pullover, as dark and mysterious as a starlit night. It's perfect for chasing after dreams or simply staying cozy on a chilly evening. Imagine the NESA logo, a constellation of its own, emblazoned upon it.
• The Shadow Weaver Ballcap: A classic black ballcap, a symbol of quiet confidence and unwavering support. Wear it while pondering the universe, or just while waiting for the school bus.
• The Cloud Catcher Crewneck: A heather grey crewneck sweatshirt, as soft and comforting as a fluffy cloud. Perfect for curling up with a good book or brainstorming your next artistic masterpiece.
• The Lunar Leap Joggers: Black jogger pants, designed for effortless movement and unparalleled comfort. Ideal for practicing your dance moves, or just lounging after a long day of inspiring others.
• The Twilight Traveler Hoodie: A heather grey hoodie, a beacon of warmth and familiarity. Wear it as you journey through the halls of NESA, a reminder that you're part of something truly special.
• The Silver Lining Lightweight Hooded Shirt: A grey lightweight hooded shirt that feels like a gentle breeze, perfect for layering and adding a touch of understated style to your wardrobe.

Each piece, bearing the proud NESA name and/or logo, is a testament to the creativity and passion that defines our community. These aren't just clothes; they're wearable expressions of your NESA spirit.

But here's the catch, dear dreamers: This celestial window of opportunity is fleeting! You can snag these magical garments online at https://nesasupport.itemorder.com/ now through March 7th. Don't let this chance slip through your fingers like stardust!

After the online portal closes, these treasures will be delivered directly to LEE High School, ready to be embraced by their rightful owners. So, don't delay! Step into the realm of NESA style and let your inner star shine bright!

• Set strike today
• She Loves me was AMAZING!!! Great job everyone!!!

February 25

• NEISD Medical Professionals on campus learning about and highlighting NESA

February 26

• WORLD Pistachio day
• aaaannnnd.... OMG I DIDN'T KNOW THIS EXISTED AND NOW I DO SO I AM SO HAPPY!!!!!! NATIONAL BACON DAY!!!!

• National Chili Day (beans or no beans... that is the question. Whether 'tis nobler to use legumes and suffer...)

February 28

• No more frozen Fridays let us hope! 🖤🤍🖤🤍

March 1

• National play outside day

March 2

• Rest, Relax.

Footnotes rehearsal is in FULL SWING!

March pARTners meeting will feature our Dance Directors

https://secure.smore.com/n/dpza6

🎉 This Month with NESA pARTners! 🎉

our amazing NESA pARTners do SO MUCH for our students. They will be hosting a thrifting event as a fundraiser, and we would love to see you there! We are taking donations as well.

✨ NESA pARTners Thrifting Event ✨

📅 Save the Date!

Join us Saturday, March 22, from 8 AM - 2 PM in the PAC parking lot for our thrift event! 🛍️

We are currently in need of donations! If you have gently used clothes and household items, now is the perfect time to give them a second life.

📦 Next donation drop-off: Bring your items to our next NESA pARTners meeting—your contributions will help make this event a success!

Let’s support our students and community while keeping sustainability in style! 💙♻️ #NESApartners #ThriftForACause #SustainableStyle #DonateWithLove

We’re beyond grateful for the incredible support our parent organization, NESA pARTners, has provided this school year! In December alone, they raised $7,195 for our students and directors, along with contributions to key projects like:
📸 $450 for photography for Steppin’ Into the Holidays
🎬 $504 for StudioBinder software
🎥 $1,000 for the Austin Film Festival
📌 $335 for light signage for SpongeBob

Thank you, NESA pARTners, for your unwavering support and generosity. Your dedication plays a vital role in helping our students shine and achieve their creative dreams! 🌟👏

NESA pARTners is a dedicated parent organization committed to supporting the North East School of the Arts (NESA) students and staff across all majors. Operating behind the scenes, the group provides invaluable assistance in a variety of ways. From fundraising initiatives and providing pre-show meals to backstage support, costume creation, and box office management, NESA pARTners volunteers contribute countless hours to ensure the success of NESA events and programs.

The organization plays a crucial role in supporting NESA’s mission by funding enrichment programs, scholarships, and classroom resources through membership dues and fundraising efforts such as Silent Auctions, Family Nights, and The Big Give. The annual NESA Banquet, hosted by pARTners, serves as a celebratory culmination of the school year, recognizing student achievements. With a variety of volunteer opportunities to suit different time commitments, NESA pARTners welcomes individuals eager to contribute to the vibrant NESA community.

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