In this welcome post, Jessica Alvarado—actress, educator, and founder of PEAK Theatre Arts—introduces PEAK Backstage, a new blog dedicated to empowering educators, parents, and school leaders through the power of theatre. Learn what to expect and how this space will support creativity, connection, and community.

Why I chose not to make PEAK Theatre Arts a nonprofit—and what that decision means for students, the arts, and community-based education. A personal story about ownership, creativity, and staying close to the work.

I never set out to be a teacher. Truly. It wasn’t part of the plan. I wasn’t someone who dreamed about shaping young minds and decorating a classroom. I was an actress, fully and completely.

These five posts are about The Heart Behind PEAK: Building a Theatre Program Rooted in Art, Kids & Community-- but also, they're about me. My journey, what I believe, and what I value.