Valwood fifth grader, Mary Peeples has always enjoyed singing and performing. At age three she entertained her family with volume and range that indicated there would be more than just living room performances in her future.  Mary began taking voice lessons and made her first public debut with a church solo. Soon she joined the Valdosta Theater Guild's Gingerbread Players in the production of Babes in Toyland. 

Mary's extraordinary talent landed her the role of Susan Waverly in the 2010 Peach State Summer Theater production of Irving Berlin's White Christmas.  Her performance garnered notice, and Mary was offered the role with a national touring company. Mary is currently on a twelve week tour visiting Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia and many more cities.  Many of her fellow performers are veterans of the stage, some having performed White Christmas and other productions on Broadway.

While on the tour, Mary and her tutor stay in close contact with Valwood fifth grade teacher Mrs. Jennifer Hornkohl. Mary follows the course of study as outlined and will be returning to the classroom fully prepared and in step with her classmates.  A rare opportunity for a talented young lady and chance to "Go Beyond."