Education
- Bachelor’s degree in communication arts, theater with a minor in performing arts from Troy University
- Master’s degree in theater education from Columbus State University
Responsibilities
- Coordinate, plan, and direct productions throughout the year
- Teach students of all theatrical backgrounds and interests the many ways of theatre
- Lead International Thespian Society Troupe 6412
Starr’s Mill is excited to welcome drama teacher Cody Ward, hired in December to take on the theater teacher position.
Theatre is a delicate art, and the success of a show and a department is often determined by the amount of prior planning gone into it. It is not often to find a teacher, especially a drama teacher, being brought in as the only teacher of the courses mid-year.
New drama teacher Cody Ward found himself in a difficult situation with having to put together a production with no time to get acclimated to the environment. Yet, these challenges only push him to pour himself into continuing the success of Starr’s Mill theatre and its students.
As Ward finds his footing in the school, he is not just taking on the direction of upcoming musical “The Little Mermaid,” but also building the foundational skills of the students.
“In some cases I’m starting from scratch with the lessons that I’m creating, so some days it is kind of like a trial-and-error seeing what works, what doesn’t,” Ward said.
Ward hopes to continue to develop the program, and many years down the road, Ward said he sees himself “here at Starr’s Mill with a program that’s growing bigger and bigger.” He continues to foster collaboration and community as he builds relationships with the students.
Ward started teaching in Atlanta in 2018 and has worked in all grade levels in both public and private schools. He’s done a bit of everything, so he brings a lot of varied experience to the table to pass on to his students.
Starr’s Mill Theatre has seen many changes this year, and both the students and Ward are facing this one with confidence. Come out and see their work on “The Little Mermaid” on February 27-March 2.