N.C. Arts in Action

St. Thomas More Catholic School
Participates in N.C. Arts in Action

For the third year in a row, our 4th grade classes are participating in the N.C. Arts in Action program (AIA). This program is an internationally acclaimed in-school, curriculum based dance program for elementary students. N.C. Arts in Education helps children reach their full potential using performing arts as the catalyst to build focus, discipline, self-esteem, teamwork and leadership. A trained lead teacher/choreographer, an assistant teacher, and a music accompanist teach the classes. The one-hour classes run for 10 weeks, culminating in a performance for the entire school and church community.

“What’s obvious about the program is that it’s a dance class,” said Mrs. Jennifer Sullivan, 4B teacher. “What’s not so obvious is that the children learn listening skills, how to follow multi-step directions and build positive classroom interactions.” The program offers other benefits as well. “I love that sometimes it is the student who doesn’t excel in academics in the classroom that is the star of AIA,” she said. “Everyone has their strengths; it’s nice to see someone who isn’t recognized so much or as sure of themselves be in the spotlight.”

Mrs. Heather Heeden, 4A teacher, agrees whole-heartedly with Mrs. Sullivan’s sentiments. “I love that AIA takes children out of their comfort zone, many dancing for the first time, and they rise to the challenge,” she said. “Even the most uncoordinated children grow and flourish in this program. Their confidence grows from all the positive reinforcement from the dance teachers and the other students.”

Everyone in the St. Thomas More Catholic Community is invited to attend the 4th graders’ dance performances on Thursday, April 16 at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on the school stage (Lower School Hall). Mrs. Sullivan’s class will present the story of Japan; Mrs. Heeden’s class will present the story of Ireland.

“I love seeing how much the kiddos love AIA,” said Mrs. Sullivan. “What we are doing is so different than what the class pictured in their heads when I introduced AIA, a ‘dance program’. Even the boys love this!”