Gemma … arrived in Ghana on day one to call on all the schools where we have relationships through our scholarship program. She recruited two co-teachers so that what she would organize over the next six months would be carried forward and be sustained (and it has!). When she started teaching her curriculum I must admit to skepticism. Until I witnessed her teaching and the class interaction. Theater done the way Gemma does it is multi-variable, where each child participating develops leadership, management and peer accountability. Original storytelling helps each child face their own hurts and hurdles, often very serious -- the plays are written by the kids to represent the lives they have to deal with in a setting with such great poverty.

Dana

Founder, WomensTrust

Gemma connects with her students in rich and meaningful way. She never sees a room full of students, but rather a room full of humans ready to explore and experience the world together.

Virginia

educator

I worked with Ms. Cooper-Novack for three years in an [After School Matters] Playmaking and Performance class at my high school. I participated in the program for three years because Gemma was enthusiastic with guiding me in my style of writing (historical fiction) when others were less receptive. … Gemma is a kind and attentive teacher. She does her utmost to pull you out of the biggest creative slump with a single idea. … Any student of hers will no doubt be successful in the future.

Christin

former student

Gemma you can be Cat Womon.

Kenyon

student, age 9

I learned a lot from this program. It made me a stronger person and a writer. I will miss this program.

Starr

student, age 16