Each level
of dance classes at Groove With Me adheres
to the New York State Art Standards for Dance. Students will
not only be able to engage in the process of dance, but be
knowledgeable about what they are doing and able to discuss
their participation.
Beginner Movement for ages 4,5,6
Classes are offered in hip hop, ballet and tap with a goal
to increase gross motor skills. Classes are designed specifically for younger children who may not receive consistent structure and attention elsewhere. Most beginner classes include a time to sit in a circle and share what’s happening in their lives or to pass a book around to read aloud.
Jazz, Funk, Tap, Ballet & Hip Hop for ages 7-9
The indicators for the New York State Arts Standards for Dance intermediate level include: create dance phrases alone and/or in collaboration with others. Girls at all levels are put in groups to create choreography in counts of eight. This choreography is then often included in the class’ routine for upcoming performances.
On the first day of class the girls brainstorm their own rules, how they like to be treated, and how they think the teacher should be treated. Throughout their semesters at they continue to talk and think about their actions and the actions of others. They develop a sense of ownership over their surroundings and the world they live in.
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 Photo Credits:
Top: AB Swenson
Mid: AE Fletcher
Btm: AB Swenson |
The “Who Am I?” Curriculum
One class for ages 10-12 uses other art
forms to explore their identity.
The curriculum utilizes journaling, spoken word, drama exercises,
poetry, photo and video. Guest artists visit and contribute
a different perspective. It provokes questioning of images
of women in videos and song lyrics, what concerns girls have
about their schools, and what means
to them. The girls then take what they have learned and use
it to create an original piece of choreography.
Groove With Me’s Teen Program
The Women’s Sports Foundation found that girls who engage in physical activity have lower risks for breast cancer, diabetes, teen pregnancy, drug use and a host of other health problems. 90% of teen violence occurs between the hours of 3pm and 6pm.
The teenagers at create
a dance together, sometimes conveying contextual meaning. This
is the commencement indicator for the NYS Art Standards. Creating
a dance together maximizes the use of teamwork and cooperation
skills and leaves young people with a respect for their creative
process and the satisfaction of developing their own work.
Movin’ Moms
| The mothers’ class gives mothers the
opportunity for self-expression, relaxation and exercise.
With a greater awareness of the nature of the organization,
the mothers are able to appreciate the importance of
the programs and provide encouragement for their daughters’ participation.
The class gives mothers one hour a week just for them,
to be with their peers and to get exercise. This may
decrease the potential pressure cooker atmosphere in
the home. Moms have the opportunity to perform in shows in December and June.
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Photo: AE Fletcher |
Referral
Program Director Meredith Sherman organically incorporates her social work skills into her position. She spends much of her time listening to students, mothers, and volunteers, problem solving, and supporting their developmental needs. Meredith collaborates with social workers from other community agencies to ensure the success of shared clients. The organization is a conduit to services mothers may not know about and has connected families to welfare advocates, free health exams, job placement programs, and other community based agencies.
If you are interested in registering your
daughter for dance classes, please contact Meredith
at the Groove With Me studio.
Click here for our 2007-2008 Schedule of Dance Classes
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