During the 2008-09 school year approximately 1,000 students from more than a dozen elementary schools participated in the Having a Ball program. This program provides fifth grade students with a discipline-based rigorous ballroom dance experience, while also creating active, global citizens.
A cultural experience
Through the Having a Ball program 5th graders learn the international style of ballroom dance, which includes the Tango, Waltz and Cha-Cha, just to name a few.
The program not only introduces exercise regimes to students, but it uses dance as an innovative way to teach students about history, geography and culture. Another equally important benefit is the development of students’ confidence and self-esteem as well as the cultivation of important skills such as communication, teamwork, goal setting, leadership, posture, coordination and musicality.
Mastering the dance
During this 20-week program students received ballroom dance instruction as well as classroom instruction in the following subject areas: fitness, nutrition, socio-emotional skills and cultural connections taught by a teacher sponsor. The three 50-minute dance classes are taught by a dance instructor and students have the opportunity to learn the Cha-Cha, Waltz, Tango, Paso Doble and Jive. The program culminates with a closing dance event as well as in-school demonstrations.
This yearly program has a goal to provide a quality dance education experience while providing physical activity and an outlet for socio-emotional development. Dance is a valuable way to not only improve students’ physical abilities, but to also instill in students the importance of respect, cooperation, problem solving, critical thinking, creativity and dedication. In addition to these life lessons, dance provides another outlet for student achievement.
How do I sign up?
It’s actually up to your child’s school to sign up for the innovative dance program. Schools who are interested in applying should contact Arts Education; participation is limited and selection is highly competitive.
Having a Ball is partially funded by the Carol M. White Physical Education grant (from the U.S. Department of Education) with the support of the Chicago Board of Education.
Learn more about Arts Education.
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