Tonya Lewis

In an effort to develop cultural awareness among students, Lewis developed "Windows On the World (WOW)," a multi-faceted program designed to expose Ravenwood High School students to information and knowledge that cultivates a broader understanding of the world community. General music, ecology, world geography, and sociology students will research a country and write about that country's values, customs, political or religious beliefs. According to Lewis, students will create a poster, tri-fold, or educational handout to share the spectrum of information on their given topic. Art students will design three-dimensional pieces that give a personal reflection on a culture. First year percussion students will participate in a workshop with a local musician to learn traditional South American Samba music. Ultimately, all of the participating students will showcase their work, in partnership with school counselors and community members, at the Ravenwood High School International Food & Music Festival in February 2010. Between 400-500 students will benefit from this program. Lewis lives in Nashville.