Positive energy is contagious, and if a kid sees a teacher doing the dance, they feel they can do it. The program also aims to promote interracial understanding and respect for differences. Students from diverse backgrounds in regular, bilingual and special education classrooms have the opportunity to interact with each other during the dance classes. Interracial teams of instructors at each school demonstrate how dance transcends racial boundaries. This residency also provides opportunities for students to be group leaders.
Leaders help other students with dance steps and assist with costume ideas and preparation.
With strong support from parents and school administrators, MJT Dance Company hopes to make the program a national model for urban high schools to foster positive relations through dance. The residency culminated in performances at Boston's John Hancock Hall for more than 20,000 Boston Public school students, family members and the public.