Dance Education
How and why we dance is directly impacted by how we each see and understand the world. Through movement, I encourage students to explore their sense of self, harness their creativity and foster community. In order to create a safe space, I invite them to examine their ideas about expectations and success. Everyone in the room is invited to investigate our common ground and acknowledge that success will feel and look differently for each of us. Personal growth occurs daily, and must be celebrated every time. A student may smile or stand taller because they tackled a difficult movement or two students might collaborate even though they disagree. By using a responsive approach, peer teaching activities and consistent self- evaluation, students can hone their creative voice and discover their importance in the classroom community. The creative process can be messy, and learning to work through that mess is in itself a great success.
When the “I can’t do it” becomes a “what if we try it like this?” — We know we are getting somewhere.
Teaching in academia.
While I enjoy teaching individuals of all ages and skill levels, I am particularly drawn to working with elementary, middle, and high school students. Experiencing how young minds think about movement, prompting them to explore new forms and techniques, as well as building cross disciplinary curriculum through a social justice lens drives my work at New Roads School. Each class is an opportunity to help young people develop not only body control, coordination, and creativity, but also lay the groundwork for vital developmental social, listening, and communication skills.
Learn more about New Roads overarching mission and vision below!
After school workshops, master classes, and online learning!
In addition to my work as a faculty member at New Roads, I am available for master classes, multi-day and/or week long workshops, and zoom/online exchanges.
COVID-19 has affected the dance field in many ways, and increased online learning is an exciting new part of my practice. Check out the “Sidewalk Chalk Dance” I created for Inner City Arts. By combining drawing and movement, you can share art with your neighborhood during the quarantine — and afterwards!