At The Village School of Naples (TVS), we pride ourselves on nurturing well-rounded students who excel in academics, sports, arts, and personal growth. One such student is Danville Leadbetter, ‘25, who has profoundly impacted our community through his passion for the arts. His journey embodies the values we instill in our students: perseverance, creativity, and a commitment to personal excellence.

The Love for Art and Theater at TVS

Danville's love for the arts has flourished during his time at TVS. Since 6th grade, he has actively participated in the theater and arts program, performing in after-school shows and devoting himself to rehearsals. “My favorite subject at TVS would be the theater and arts program. I’ve been involved in it since 6th grade,” he shares, reflecting on his passion for the craft.

In addition to theater, Danville pours hours into his AP Art studies, where he often loses himself in his creations. “Sometimes I can spend hours at a time on a piece,” he explains, reminiscing about a particularly memorable moment: “There’s one time in AP art where I had a charcoal pencil, and I had to make multiple scratching marks. It created a high-pitched squeaking sound every time I did it. My classmates weren’t happy.”

His commitment to the arts isn't just about performance or assignments; it’s about honing a craft that allows him to express his emotions and tell his story. Danville's dedication to his work exemplifies the value of personal best—one of the core Christ Skills taught at TVS.

A Journey of Growth and Accomplishment

Reflecting on his time at TVS, Danville’s proudest achievement is the evolution of his art style. Despite facing personal challenges, he has focused on using art for self-expression and emotional release. "I'm proud of how far I've come in my art style. Despite many changes in my personal life, art has always been a space where I can express myself and relieve some negative emotion," he says.

Danville’s participation in Art Splash last year was a defining moment for him, showcasing his talent and his growth as an artist. “I enjoyed being involved in Art Splash last year, and I hope to do it again this year,” he notes with excitement for the future.

His story reminds us of the importance of perseverance, a trait that Danville embodies as he continues to refine his craft and push the boundaries of his artistic expression.

Guidance and Mentorship from TVS Faculty

Mentorship plays a crucial role in Danville’s development, and he attributes much of his growth to Mr. Leo, a teacher and mentor who has had a significant influence on his life. “Mr. Leo has always been a great mentor for me. Whether helping me through a personal challenge or just convincing me to move on to get my work done,” Danville shares.

The support and guidance he’s received from Mr. Leo have shaped his mindset and work ethic, reinforcing the values of trustworthiness and courage we cherish at TVS. "It's great to have an ear to listen to and a person who can share his life experiences and help you grow," Danville adds.

Looking to the Future

Danville’s aspirations for the future are deeply rooted in his love for art and desire to make a lasting impact. "I hope that my art continues to move forward and inspire others. I'm hoping to hone my skills now in high school so in the future, I can create something that helps better the world," he shares.

His long-term goal is to create art that reflects his personal growth and leaves a positive influence legacy.

"Art is an expression, and life itself is expressive. I hope to live a life and leave something behind that shows my progress."

 

Danville’s commitment to continuous improvement reflects our core belief at The Village School: education isn’t just about academics; it’s about nurturing individuals who strive to better themselves and the world around them.

Danville Leadbetter’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and strong community support. At The Village School, we celebrate students like Danville who embody our values and inspire those around them to strive for greatness.

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