It Takes a Village

I am feeling a deep sense of gratitude today, as I received two generous donations of circle spots for our performing arts room. These are especially helpful as our younger movers get accustomed to a wide-open, slippery space!


Thank you so much to those who have donated. We are still in need of everything from mic stands to a Swiffer! If you would like to help, our Amazon wish list is here.

2nd Graders using circle spots in Shadow Dances

Beginning Mirror Dances

Today, our second grade artists tired "mirror dancing" for the first time, while listening to Le Carnaval des Animaux (l'aquarium) by Camille Saint-Saens. Students took turns being leaders and slowly moving so that their partner could copy what they saw in front of them.

It was beautiful to watch these energetic dancers sharply focus their physical attention and communicate non-verbally as they explored new ways to move their body with a partner. I noticed that, in this class and others, students continued to mirror as they lined up to leave the room. Two students were even spotted mirroring as they lined up from recess later in the week!

A New Chapter: Music and Dance at ASCEND!

This is the first year that our K–8 school, ASCEND, has had both music and dance instruction for our students. Currently, K–2 and 4th grades receive performing arts instruction 1 hour a week in our newly renovated space. With the creation of this program, students will find new ways to express themselves, learn to move with intent, and create works of art. Let the beauty begin!