A quality K-12 dance program addresses the learning needs of the whole child. Studies in dance address the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and aesthetic development of children. Movement engages students by providing a hands-on approach to the learning experience. Dance study allows for all learners to be successful as it addresses various learning styles and intelligences. Performances are a by-product, but are not the primary goal of dance education.
Performances are the outcome of the creative process.
This process helps students develop the ability to think critically. Through the process of creating, students are able to be imaginative, and approach things in new or different ways. Students develop their own aesthetic criteria, and evaluate and validate their work and the choices they make. Students also look outside of themselves, discovering and developing respect for the efforts and work of others. Students apply and synthesize knowledge of dance in relation to other content areas.