Rhythm Is In the Air At Wexler-Grant!

One of the many great parts about Wexler-Grant's Boost! Program is that when programs are brought in, we make sure that they hit more than one of the four Boost! Domains: extended learning opportunities, family support and engagement, social and behavioral health, and physical health. Miss Shari Caldwell's African Dance program not only promotes a healthy lifestyle, it encourages positive interaction among peers, and provides a safe place after-school for Wexler-Grant students to be. 

Miss Shari has been dancing for over 30 years. "I was studying dance by the age of 6!" she told me one afternoon while the students were getting ready to show their stuff on stage. She brings this experience to each session she teaches at Wexler-Grant on Wednesday afternoons. The students learn Traditional African Dance, which originates from the West African country of Guinea, and native songs from Southern Africa. 

The program at Wexler-Grant has attracted almost 30 students, making it the second largest after-school program, just behind LEAP. Because there are so many interested students, we've even been able to utilize the dance class as a resource for a few of LEAP's girl groups. Miss Shari is incredibly enthusiastic, and it quickly has rubbed off on the kids. Their progress after only a month of learning is phenomenal, and the students take the time they have to work on their routines very seriously. 

When talking with the students, it's clear that this is not just an after-school program, but also an opportunity to learn more about themselves and the world around them. One of our 4th grade girls said that she "want[ed] to be a dancer...to see if [she was] serious about it," while one of the male students said that he "want[ed] to learn African Dance so [he] could learn about a different culture." The positive lessons the students are taking away from the sessions has spread, and more students are clamouring to get involved. We are all so thankful for Miss Shari bringing her skills and knowledge to Wexler-Grant. Stay tuned for more updates on her sessions and the students' progress!!