What drives students to think outside the box and turn their ideas into reality? At Calabasas High School, students are finding unique ways to express themselves and bring their ideas to life. 

To high school students, creativity is not only their new painting or song but how they live their everyday lives. True creative thinking is expressed through dancing, writing, creating, and organizing.

The counselors at Calabasas High School are professionals who help the students grow in academics and other creative fields. Wellness and academic counselor Lisa Lucore feels that students’ creativity inspires her every day, and constantly encourages creativity within students. 

“The arts give us a reason to live. It makes life worth living,” said Lucore.

Having a creative voice is also a primary way to cope with stress and anxiety, especially when it comes to academics. 

“Whether through formal art therapy programs or informal creative hobbies, incorporating creativity into a stress management routine can be a beneficial way to reduce stress levels,” said Mental Health Research, a global scientific network.

Freshman Katana Azhakh finds confidence when she takes the stage.

“For dancing, I think the way that I present myself with makeup and stuff is amazing,” said Azhakh.

From fashion to sewing to design, students channel their inner creativity through personal style and handmade pieces.

“I express my creativity with fashion, sewing, and just designing stuff,” said junior Arnaz Chowdhury.

Creativity is not only for self-expression and stress management but also a way through which students are able to manage the ups and downs of school life. Students at CHS show daily creativity through a capella, theater, dance, costume design, sports, broadcasting, Comedy Sportz, model U.N., fine arts, and so much more. 

“I like to take whatever show we’re working on and kind of use that as an opportunity to express my creativity throughout the costumes and put my own spin on everything,” said senior Lilly Riggs.