Miami country day school is proud to announce that Christina Pla-guzman, our Thespian Troupe director and Upper School theater teacher, has been named the National 2022 Stephen Schwartz Musical Theater Teacher of the year. The award, which is presented by the ASCAP Foundation and the Educational Theater Association, is the highest recognition a middle or high school theater teacher can receive and honors the many ways theater teachers impact students and colleagues, as well as their career accomplishments and reach beyond the classroom. Pla- Guzman, an 18 year teaching veteran, is beloved by her students and the entire MCDS community and has created a relevant and thriving program that transforms the lives of students. Under her leadership, the Miami Country Day Upper school theater program puts on two main stage productions, a theater showcase, a holiday production and theater for social change programming each year. In addition, select seniors write, produce and star in a one person showcase yearly. Pla- Guzman also prepares her students for the International Thespian Excellence Awards and numerous national showcases and competitions. Cristina Pla- Guzman reaches beyond the classroom each and everyday and is changing lives as she brings to life Country Day’s whole child mission. It is with much Spartan Pride that the entire MCDS community congratulates Ms. Cristina Pla-Guzman.