Forty eight students of different backgrounds from 4 elementary schools come together to have fun while dancing Salsa! They will display their talent and compete for trophies and prizes. Parents, teachers, and supporters are invited to cheer the young members of our community. Do not miss it!

Dancing for Diversity 2009 gathered nearly 300 students, parents, teachers, tutors, and mentors at Albemarle Elementary School. The auditorium rocked while 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders engaged in a Salsa competition on stage. There were no color, cultural, or language barriers, only music and dancing . . . and smiles and also tears of excitement. We watched the younger members of our community work hard on their salsa steps with their partners. Our hearts jumped of joy!

LAWA LAWA Posted: 2 yearss ago
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Move over "Dancing with the Stars," CMS students are dancing for diversity. Thirty students from four elementary schools paired up to compete in a classroom dancing contest. Students from Albemarle Road, Merry Oaks, Winterfield and Shamrock Gardens elementary performed Salsa dances in front of a packed house Friday, April 30.

"Music and dance are universal," said Philip Steffes, principal at Merry Oaks Elementary. "I would like to see this program grow."

The Latin American Women's Association started the program at Albemarle Road and Merry Oaks in 2009 to expose students to different cultures and the arts. Charlotte Salsa instructors meet with students once a week to teach Salsa routines and to study the arts.

"I loved the program," said fifth-grader Mario McGee. "I wanted to win so I practiced at home with my little sister."

Communities in Schools staff and teachers selected students who expressed an interest in dance, behaved well in school and showed a commitment to participate in the program.

For the second year, Albemarle Road Elementary was chosen as the best overall dance team. Mahogany Joachim and Marlon Colindres of Albemarle Road placed first in the couple's competition. Merry Oaks Elementary students Edward Porter and Lisa McIntyre placed second.

"The collaboration between Communities In Schools and the Greater Enrichment Project really made this program successful," said Stella Hastie, program director.

Claudia Pureco Posted: 2 yearss ago
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