Inspired by her love of Star Wars, Hayward transformed the room into an immersive experience featuring Darth Vader, Stormtroopers, Ewoks, the Millennium Falcon and a TIE fighter.
But the experience goes far beyond the decorations. “Use the Voice” is her musical twist on “Use the Force” as students learn to read music, sing harmonies, blend and take control of their voices.
“I want them to be inspired to do something beyond themselves,” Hayward said. “I want them to realize they can use math, science, engineering and creativity.”
Students say Hayward makes choir a place where they can learn, laugh and feel seen. Her creativity extends beyond the classroom too.
A longtime teacher of choir and theater, Hayward has spent 24 years at West Point Junior High and 26 years teaching. She also performs with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, bringing her professional musical experience back to her students.
Through music, creativity and a little Star Wars magic, Hayward hopes her students leave her classroom inspired to think beyond a single subject and discover that they can create, explore and use their own voices in powerful ways.