It is with great enthusiasm and pride that we gather here today to discuss a vision that will not only enrich our community but also provide lasting benefits to the education of our students: the creation of a new amphitheater in Washington, Illinois. 

The importance of music education in our schools cannot be overstated. Studies show that music and the arts help develop critical thinking, improve academic performance, and foster a sense of discipline and teamwork. For students in Washington, Illinois, an amphitheater would be a welcome addition—a venue where they could come together to showcase their talents, express their creativity, and grow in confidence. Whether it’s a choir performance, a band concert, or a theatrical production, this space would provide our students with the opportunity to perform in a professional setting, preparing them for future academic and personal success.

Imagine the pride our students will feel, standing on stage in a beautiful, purpose-built space designed just for showcasing the arts, performing before their peers, families, and the community. It would be a setting where they could truly shine—where they could experience firsthand the power of music and performance as tools for connection, inspiration, and achievement. 

Additionally, the value to our schools is immeasurable. This amphitheater would offer a venue not only for student performances, but also for educational events, concerts, and collaborations with other schools and local organizations. It would elevate our schools’ arts programs, increase student engagement, and inspire future generations of musicians, performers, and artists. 

We are also deeply grateful to individuals like Jim Hengst, whose generous contributions to education within our community have made this vision possible. Jim’s commitment to supporting our students, fostering a love of the arts, and investing in the future of Washington is something we can all be incredibly proud of. His passion for education and his willingness to invest in our youth reflects the very best of what our community stands for. We want to thank him for his leadership, his generosity, and his unwavering dedication to the betterment of our schools and our students. 

Together, let’s make this dream a reality. Let’s build an amphitheater that will not only enhance our students’ education but also serve as a lasting legacy for generations to come. 

Thank you. Kyle W. Freeman
Superintendent of Schools
Washington Community High School Dist. #308