The Atlanta Public Schools Dance Program is designed to provide standards-driven, sequential, and comprehensive dance instruction that will offer experiences necessary to develop an appreciation for, and skills in, dance. The Dance Program in the Atlanta Public Schools is integrated with other disciplines in the fine arts (music, dance, drama, and visual arts) in order for the student to fully understand the function and role of the fine arts in twenty-first century society.
VISION STATEMENT
The dance program is an innovative vehicle that incorporates the core subjects of reading, math, science, and social studies while fostering creativity and promoting self-esteem. Dance is a proven resource that supports academic excellence, and at the same time, provides a positive means of expression for our children.
In Atlanta Public Schools, instruction in dance starts in the elementary schools as a part of the General Music and Visual Arts Programs. Formal dance classes start at the middle school level and continue through high school. Dance classes include experiences in creating, understanding, analyzing, and evaluating dance, as well as exploring the connections of dance with the other fine arts, other disciplines, and everyday life. The goal of dance education is to:
· Foster the development of children who are actively engaged in learning.
· Contribute to a creative, committed, and exciting school culture, and build bridges to a broader community culture.
· Help generate a dynamic, coordinated, and cohesive curriculum.
· Humanize the learning experience.
· Allow students to value and appreciate the contributions of other students, other cultures, and history.