Originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, Nora Moreno - Jarrell graduated from Texas A&M University, Kingsville in 1998 and has been teaching since.  She has a BFA in Theatre and Communications and is certified to teach K-12.  Currently, as well as being the Drama Teacher at John Jay High School, she is also the head of the entire Fine Arts department, and also in charge if the "Reach for the Stars" summer program for challenged youth in the Northside Independent School District. 

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Mrs. Moreno - Jarrell is a passionate and devoted teacher who works with her students through enjoyable activities and well-constructed lesson plans.  She has been part of the Acting Up Creative Drama Academy Staff since 2009 and has worked with students of all ages.  Her class focus is on basic acting techniques, including understanding the essential instruments of the performer.  She teaches skills on voice, body, and concentration.  All skills are taught with creative games and activities that engage and build self-confidence in every performer.​

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In her Teen and Adult classes she assesses the students' strengths and needs and applies theatre techniques that address each one.  The focus is on the growth of the actor, where they learn to connect with themselves as well as other actors, and the audience and/or camera.

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Her passion derived from her high school years where she performed for a winning One-act play and Oral Interpretation team.  Continuing her success through college, she was honored with great opportunities to develop and enhance these skills.  She has acted in several productions, receiving prestigious awards as Best Actress, All Star Performer, and Best-Supporting Actress.  She has also directed many award winning productions that have led to the success of many of her students, actors and acrtresses.

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All of this success could not have been supported without her loving parents, husband Todd Jarrell, and her children Vida and Eric.

Nora Jarrell