Primary Dance & Movement

The Primary Dance & Movement program at SCPA introduces students in grades K–3 to the fundamentals of movement, rhythm, and expression. Through age-appropriate activities, students explore body awareness, spatial relationships, locomotor skills (running, skipping, leaping), non-locomotor skills (bending, twisting, stretching), balance, coordination, and choreography. Lessons also introduce students to ballet, modern, jazz, aerobics, international dance, dance history, and creative movement, helping them gain both technical skills and an appreciation for dance as an art form.

Classes emphasize creativity, discipline, and collaboration, encouraging students to use movement as a form of storytelling and self-expression. By engaging in dance activities, students also strengthen focus, confidence, and respect for themselves and others.

Dance Dress Requirements

Proper attire is essential for freedom of movement and safety in Dance & Movement classes:

• Kindergarten: Shorts and a t-shirt or leotard; bare feet or ballet shoes.
• Grades 1–3 (Girls): Black leotard, tights (black, pink, or white), and ballet shoes (required if wearing tights with feet). Two-piece dance outfits or a leotard with dance pants/shorts are also acceptable.
• Grades 1–3 (Boys): White t-shirt and elastic waist shorts, worn under school clothes; ballet shoes with white socks or bare feet.

All shoes should be flat leather, slip-on, soft-sole ballet shoes, clearly marked with the child’s name.

Assessment & Growth

Students are evaluated on participation, effort, and growth in dance fundamentals. Attendance and active participation are essential for accurate grading. Students are assessed on proficiency, effort, and development.