Throughout Pinewood’s many art programs, students have the opportunity for self-expression and artistic development. Pinewood has forged performers, artists, and musicians alike, many of whom will hold their learnings close as they move on from their Pinewood years. The class of 2026 brought four students who plan to continue their passion for art beyond high school. 

   Malaika Boros has participated in Pinewood Singers since coming to Pinewood in ninth grade. In sophomore year, Boros joined Pinewood’s a cappella group, Take Note, pursuing both a cappella and choir throughout high school because of her love for the program and the community.

   “Take Note is the best thing ever,” Boros said. “[It has] the best group, the best people, and Ms. Linza, the best music teacher ever.” 

   Boros plans to audition for a cappella groups to pursue her passion at UC Santa Barbara. Alongside her physics major, she plans on taking some music theory classes and, if time allows, getting a minor in music.

   Gwen Chang is a significant contributor to Pinewood’s theater department, bringing shows like this year’s “Amélie” to life as stage manager. Her role has evolved from taking rehearsal notes to calling light and sound cues during a performance.

   Chang’s various theater experiences at Pinewood have prepared her for majoring in stage management at Ithaca College. 

   “Pinewood has already given me a really good baseline,” Chang said. “I’m able to experience different fields, like set carpentry, lighting design, and stage managing.”

   In college, Chang plans to work on university theater productions while making connections in the larger theater community.

   Sophia Lee choreographed the dance for this year’s senior lip sync and participated in the talent show. She has taken art classes every year at Pinewood, enjoying her time in AP 2D Art this year.

   “Pinewood has a very collaborative, supportive community,” Lee said. “I’ve always had a good time connecting with my art teachers, and I’ve never felt scared to ask for help or feedback.”

   Lee plans on continuing to pursue her passion by auditioning for one of UC San Diego’s competitive dance teams. She is also considering working on a minor in dance or art, depending on how her first semester goes.

Addison Parenti has been part of theater throughout high school and has also joined Tech Theater this year. Like Boros, she also participates in Pinewood Singers. She has performed in a diverse set of eight high school productions in the past four years.  

   “Having exposure to all different types of theater has been really cool,” Parenti said. “I’ve done a ton of different types of shows.”

   Parenti plans on majoring in theater at Boston College and participating in college productions. 

   “I’m really excited to see how it compares to high school theater and just to see how I can evolve as a performer,” Parenti said.