Blog

Conversation with Talk Show Host Marc Steiner

Famed radio talk show host and longtime social justice activist Marc Steiner joined the students in Conversation today. Marc spoke about the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the difficulty in explaining how a long oppressed people can then oppress another people.

The students have been following the tragedy taking place in Gaza and the helplessness of watching it unfold day after day. Marc was asked to share his perspective as a person whose family was persecuted for being Jewish historically and during the Holocaust. He strongly opposes anti-semitism while at the same time opposing the death and destruction faced by the Palestinians.

This was a deeply personal conversation and deepened the students understanding significantly. Marc has been a long time friend of the school and is a frequent visitor to the classroom. We deeply appreciate his generosity in sharing his time and life experience.

Conversation with Musical Artist John Tyler

An unexpected change in schedule introduced us to a new friend of the school.  John Tyler joined us for a Conversation today. John is a talented native Baltimorean whose list of accomplishments is especially remarkable when you consider that his still in his mid-twenties – Emmy award winning composer, musical recording and producing artist, creating and curating music for the Ravens and the Orioles, scoring major motions pictures, and initiating and continuing to produce the annual Love Groove Festival in Baltimore.

John shared the stories of his youth including growing up not far from the school in Hoes Heights. The students appreciated that he was so open about his past and found it particularly helpful when he talked about his challenges – some of whom are shared by students – and how he overcame them. We are very grateful that John came in on such short notice and so kindly and candidly engaged with te students.  He pledged to come back and we are all looking forward to his return.

Special Visit by BCCC Dean Michelle White

We were honored to have Michelle White visit with us today. Michelle is the Assistant Dean for Early College and Access Programs at Baltimore City Community College. Michelle has been instrumental in bringing a professor from BCCC into our school to teach the 11th and 12th grade students and earn college credits. She was stopping in to check on how everything is going and to meet the new students.

You may recognize Michelle because of her long stint as the principal of Western High School. She brings this care and concern for high school students and desire to bridge their transition to college to her present position. We aare so grateful for Michelle and appreciate her being part of our community.

TCS Student News September 19, 2025

This week’s edition’s main story is on the continuing struggle in Palestine. News around the school includes a Conversation with Safiyah Cheatem from the Walters and Islam and Print, the 1st Physical Education class of the year with Mr. Eduardo, a Spotlight on Janiah Tillery, a special seminar with artist Kelly Irvine and much more.

This edition was produced by Ethan Jobita Jemadari and Ruth Rivas with production assistance by Hector Rivas.

First Theatre Seminar at The Lyric

Everyone was excited on our first field trip of the year to go to our monthly Theatre Seminar at The Lyric.  We were greeted by Lyric Education Director Denise Kumani Gantt and Deputy Director Ebony Evans. They welcomed us back for our 5th year of partnership between The Lyric and TCS.  Before feeding us a delicious lunch, they introduced us to to the new CEO and General Manager of the Lyric, Tom Bailey.  During lunch and the entire seminar, musician Antonio Eyez played guitar to create an at times relaxing and other times stimulating atmosphere.

Once everyone ate to their fill, Mitch Harris, the new teaching artists for this year’s seminar did several exercises to get the students’ creative energy flowing including an extended improv session. Mitch also invited the students to share their hopes and expectations for the year. It was an engaging and fun time leaving all looking forward to next month with excitement.

We are very grateful to The Lyric for continuing to provide this wonderful opportunity for us.

Art Seminar with Kelly Irvine