The dance program isn’t only about learning the moves. It’s where students grow, showcase who they are, and connect with others, regardless of their class level.
Dance teacher Dana Findley has been dancing since she was three years old.
Findley said, “I can’t even remember not loving dance.” Before dance became her career, it was her passion. She loved teaching since she was in high school and taught at her local park district throughout her high school and college years.
Findley said, “My favorite part of teaching is helping students, and loving dance as much as I love dance.”
Senior Nikka Khoshbin, a member of Dance Company, said, “It was always my dream to be in the Dance Company when I went to high school.” Khoshbin auditioned as an incoming sophomore and was accepted. For the past two years, she has been in Dance Company.
Khoshbin said, “Dance company kind of takes the other classes to a new level. In the lower classes, you work on learning how to choreograph…, and then in Dance Company, you can really put those ideas into motion and work on choreography for a show…”
Although the audition involves learning several performances, techniques, and specific dance moves, performing and connecting with the audience is just as important. Dancers need to make sure they are smiling and opening themselves up to the audience.
For Marcus, she has been dancing all three years at Beverly Vista Middle School and got into Dance 2, which she was really happy about because she had practiced hard to try and get in.
This year, the dance students got to listen to special guests who came to teach a dance. The guest had lots of energy as well as a fun dance for the students to learn.
Dance is a comfortable environment where people can be themselves and express themselves, while also connecting with their bodies. It is different from any other class by being less stressful and more enjoyable.
This year’s dance show is back on campus after a decade! The show will have dances made by students and teachers. Findley and Beverly Vista teacher Victoria George from the middle school are teaming up for a winter dance.
Findley wants students to dance. “Dance in a way that makes you happy,” she said. Students learn to dance, gain confidence, work as a team and make great friends.
“All dances mean something,” Findley said. “It’s about the feelings and what it makes people feel.” The dance program does more than just teach steps. It helps students grow as dancers and teammates.
