FCS Takes Center Stage Winning Top Awards at Schuler Competition
Passion echoed through every conversation with Fulton County Schools (FCS) artists and educators following this year’s Shuler Awards, where their dedication and talent earned some of the program’s highest honors.
The Shuler Awards, presented by the ArtsBridge Foundation, recognize excellence in high school musical theatre across Georgia, celebrating achievement in performance, production, and technical theatre.
This year’s honors highlight not only individual success but also the strength of theatre programs across the district. At Tri-Cities High School, student Destiny Brown earned the Shuler Award for Leading Actress, while Band Director Dr. Tarik H. Rowland Sr. was recognized for Music Direction.
“Receiving the Shuler Award for Best Orchestra is not just a personal milestone, but a reflection of the extraordinary community I’m privileged to be part of,” said Dr. Rowland. “Our students’ passion and collaboration made this recognition possible. It’s an honor to represent a district that champions arts education.”
Milton High School also celebrated major wins, with Jake James receiving the Shuler Award for Leading Actor, and Theatre Director Micki Ankiel earning Best Direction, as the school took home the prestigious Overall Production award for Water for Elephants.
“Water for Elephants pushed our students to grow as artists and storytellers,” said Ankiel. “These honors reflect the strength of our program and the collaboration behind every aspect of the performance.”
In addition, Seth Manuel of Milton High School and Destiny Brown of Tri-Cities High School were both awarded the Alliance Theatre Scholarship, further recognizing their promise in the performing arts.
That same passion seen on stage is rooted in a larger foundation, one built on access, support, and a district-wide commitment to arts education.
FCS has long prioritized the arts at every level. Betsy Eppes, the district’s K-12 Visual and Performing Arts coordinator, emphasized the importance of early exposure.
“In Fulton County Schools, students are introduced to the arts from a young age,” Eppes said. “That foundation carries through middle and high school, where programs like musical theatre continue to grow. The arts play a critical role in keeping students engaged, building confidence, and fostering creativity.”
She also highlighted the collaboration behind the district’s programming, alongside fellow coordinator Dr. Matthew Koperniak.
“We are incredibly proud of our students and staff recognized through the Shuler Awards,” Dr. Koperniak said. “These honors highlight excellence across all aspects of musical theatre—from performers on stage to students behind the scenes. The experience not only celebrates achievement but also provides valuable feedback and opportunities for growth.”
At Tri-Cities High School, this year’s award-winning production of The Color Purple marked a full-circle moment for the school’s visual and performing arts magnet program.
According to magnet coordinator Sean Freeman, the same musical earned top Shuler honors more than a decade ago, including Best Actress and Best Orchestra. This year, Tri-Cities once again received those recognitions, underscoring both tradition and sustained excellence.
“To see the same show return years later and earn those same honors again is incredibly special,” Freeman said. “It speaks to the legacy of the program and the dedication of our students.”
For Destiny Brown, recognition marks the realization of a long-held dream.
“I went from watching the Shuler Awards as an audience member, to performing in the ensemble, to winning Leading Actress as a senior,” Brown said. “Seeing that dream come to life has been amazing.”
She credited her teachers and support system for helping her step into the role of Celie and now looks ahead to representing Georgia at the Jimmy Awards in New York City.
“I’m excited to grow and compete alongside other talented performers from across the country,” she said.
Tri-Cities High School Principal Dr. Amanda Williams-Gorham said the recognition reflects both individual achievement and the school’s legacy.
“Destiny’s achievement reflects her extraordinary talent and the legacy of excellence at Tri-Cities,” she said.
At Milton High School, that same commitment to excellence took shape in this year’s production of Water for Elephants.
Senior Jake James’s journey to earning Leading Actor reflects both dedication and a defining decision.
“A year ago, I stepped away from travel baseball to focus on theatre,” James said. “I realized this is what I wanted to do, and I couldn’t be happier with that decision.”
This year’s production blended theatre with cirque performance, creating a uniquely immersive experience.
“We became a true family, learning to trust each other not just as performers but with each other’s safety on stage,” he said.
Milton High School Principal Brian Jones said seeing James recognized was a standout moment.
“He’s such a humble student, so seeing his genuine excitement when he was named Leading Actor was really special,” Jones said.
Jones added that the school’s success reflects the strength of the entire program.
“To earn top honors in multiple categories is a testament to the dedication and talent behind the program,” he said.
He also noted the resilience required to bring the production to life, from early preparation to overcoming unexpected challenges.
“That level of adaptability and commitment makes their success even more meaningful,” he said.
For Jones, moments like these reflect a larger culture of support.
“This recognition reinforces that every student can find their place,” he said. “That’s what makes this work so meaningful.”
As the district continues to invest in arts education, these stories reflect more than award-winning performances. They highlight a culture where creativity is nurtured, collaboration is valued, and students are empowered to pursue their passions, ensuring the arts remain a vital part of every student’s journey.
