ACT UPS, or Applied Creative Thinking Using Performance Skills, began nine years ago at Speer Elementary School as a cooperative effort of Theatre Arlington and the Arlington Independent School District to assist classroom teachers in reaching at-risk students. A Theatre Arlington staff member meets with the fifth grade twice a week for group discussion and theater games and exercises. Student outcomes include a boost in self-confidence and self-esteem, stronger interpersonal skills, self-discipline, use of analytical skills in everyday situations, improvement in academic and aptitude abilities, understanding of curriculum covered in other classes, and achieving a higher level of education. ACT UPS is in its 10th year at Speer Elementary School and has expanded to Crow Elementary School as well as Thornton, which begins its ACT UPS program this month (February).