Excellence In Education Lincoln Daily News January 2026 Page 21 instrument or voice during your junior high and high school years,” he said. Choir teacher Hannah Fedorchak, who began her first year of teaching at LCHS in fall 2025 after graduating from Illinois State University, shared similar views on the importance of the humanities. Fedorchak teaches choir and theater and said those programs provide students with a strong sense of belonging. “I think, especially for high schoolers, it really gives them a sense of community and belonging,” Fedorchak said. “It gives them this safe space to feel comfortable.” She added that humanities programs help students step outside their comfort zones while also building leadership skills. “For the more shy kids, it gives them a chance to do something a little out of their comfort zone,” she said. “For students who are more outgoing, it gives them opportunities to develop leadership and help guide other students.” Fedorchak said arts education also encourages independence, as students must practice and prepare on their own while still working as part of a group. “They have to be able to hold down the fort in their smaller groups,” she said. “That independence is really important.” Both educators highlighted the long-term relationships students form through music and performance. Range said students often grow
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