At Gateway Middle School the choir room is more than just a place where music is made—it’s where community is built, voices are heard, and students find belonging. Choir director Pamela Weaver’s mission extends beyond teaching students to sing; she creates an environment where every student feels valued, safe, and empowered. In a world where students face immense pressure from academics and social dynamics, the choir room is a sanctuary—a haven from stress. Here, they become part of something bigger; a community of peers who support and uplift one another. “This isn’t just about singing. It’s about finding your voice in every sense of the word,” says Pamela.

Creating this sense of community is Mrs. Weaver’s passion. From the first day of rehearsal, the choir is more than just a group—it’s a family. In this room, everyone is welcome and everyone belongs. Whether a student is a seasoned singer or just finding their voice, there’s a place for them here. This inclusivity is the cornerstone of the Gateway Choir Program, nurtured daily with pride and purpose.

In today’s world, where arts education is often undervalued, fostering an atmosphere of belonging and respect is more essential than ever. The choir room isn’t just about making music; it’s about creating a safe space where students explore who they are and who they want to become. By building a community where everyone feels valued, Mrs. Weaver and her students foster an environment that encourages personal growth, emotional expression, and a deep connection to music. The support of the school, community, and district in prioritizing arts education is essential to sustaining this haven for students—a place where they can connect, grow, and feel truly seen.

This commitment to community has paid off. The Gateway Middle School Symphonic Choir has been selected to perform at the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Northwest Division Conference—a tremendous honor and a testament to what they’ve built together. This association is one of the largest music education organizations in the world, and its Northwest Division Conference is a prestigious event bringing together music educators and students from across the region. Being the first choir from Everett Public Schools to perform at this event is not only a historic achievement but also a recognition of the choir's excellence and strength. It’s an opportunity for the students to showcase their talent and represent their school and community on a prominent stage.

But beyond the accolades and the trip, what truly matters is the impact on the students. Music education goes far beyond notes and rhythms; it instills the values of teamwork, perseverance, and empathy—skills that form the core of education. “The Gateway choir room is living proof of the critical role the arts play in our students’ lives,” says director Pamela Weaver. “This choir program is vital to our students because, through music, they learn more than just singing—they find their identity, realize their potential, and understand the power of coming together as one. It’s in that process of finding your voice that you uncover the strength to inspire and lead…and the courage to make a difference in this world.”

Make every moment count. Because in the end, it’s not just about the music—it’s about the voices that rise, the lives that change, and the communities we build together to make the world a better place.