Philosophy
Quality for All Students
Dancing Classrooms programs address several pressing needs simultaneously: the in-school residency provides high quality arts education where it is otherwise lacking, and the extra-curricular programs offer consistent positive engagement with the support of a network of Teaching Artists and peers. Dancing Classrooms provides an equal emotional, cognitive and behavioral education to children of all backgrounds, whether their home lives are chaotic, or organized and protective. By cultivating a positive support network with ballroom dance at the core, Dancing Classrooms’ ultimate goal is to create motivated, engaged students with essential skills for a successful life.
The Dulaine Method
Engage participants and make them the catalysts
for positive change and direction in their lives
Respect & Compassion
Participants are referred to as “Ladies and Gentlemen” and emphasis is placed both on mutual and self-respect.
Being Present
Teaching Artists are actively and dynamically engaged in each interaction with students, staying in the “here and now.”
Creating a Safe Space
The classes are havens in which each student’s feelings are respected – everyone is equal.
Command & Control
Teaching Artists are taught to understand how to use the group to help the individual.
Verbal & Body Language
Teaching Artists’ physical effect is one of openness, warmth, and genuine affection, while the verbal repertoire consists of positive reinforcement.
Humor & Joy
Teaching Artists are appropriately playful so that students can sense that the lessons are meant to be enjoyable.