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Parent Newsletter

ATTENTION:   Starting the first week of Jan. with edition no.14, "Dance 
Matters" will be posted on the Visual Art/Dance Home page.  Go to the ODC 
website and click on "Dance." This will lead you to the web page that has 
the newsletters.



Dance Matters   No.13 - Dec. 10 -14

 You are Invited to a Winter Celebration

The students did some wonderful research on the ballets, ballerinas, 
teachers, choreographers, costumes and theatrical innovations of the 
Romantic Ballet Era.  To culminate our history unit, we will be creating the 
atmosphere of the Paris Opera Ballet in the 1800’s.

The students will choreograph their own Romantic Ballet in the morning to be 
performed in the afternoon performance.  Each dancer will receive a 
character which they will portray in the ballet and they will be able to 
bring a costume to help show that character.  The costume should be 
something they can dance in easily.

The students may also bring refreshments for the end of the celebration.  It 
would be fun if the snacks were labeled as if they were food that might be 
served at a reception for the dancers at the Paris Opera Ballet after a 
performance.  Help your child think of food that might be eaten in France 
during the 1800’s such as bread (pain), cheese(fromage), fruit (pommes, 
poires, grain de raisin), chicken(poulet), pastries (patisseries) and so 
on.  Use your imagination to name common snacks as a French food: candy 
might be “bon bons”, cookies labeled as “madelines”, cakes as “petit fours”, 
potatoes as “pommes de terre”, juice as “jus” and so on.

Over the years we have found that this type of celebration really helps the 
students understand the concepts and style of the historical unit.  They 
even remember the information the following year!!

So we hope to see you during the week of December 17 – 21 from 12:00 – 
1:20.  Prepare to be transported back to the 1800’s, to the Paris Opera 
House, for a Romantic Ballet performance that will take your breath away.


Trying to decide what to give your son or daughter for the holiday season???

Think dance gifts!  Here are some ideas:

-  Dance CD’s
-  Dance Books
-  Dance Videos
(www.dancehorizons.com  is an excellent place to order any dance book, CD or 
video)

-  A subscription to Dance Magazine -  www.dancemagazine.com
-  Tickets to a dance performance
-  New leotards and/or tights
-  New ballet shoes
-  Warm-up sweater
-  For girls - pretty hair barrettes
-  Nutcrackers
-  Dancer pencils
-  Dance notebooks
-  Dance Calendar

Have fun shopping for your favorite dancer!!!


Dance Legend
Marius Ivanovich Petipa (March 11, 1818 — July 14,1910) was a ballet dancer, 
teacher, and choreographer.  Marius Petipa is often given the title "Father 
of all ballet", and is cited nearly unanimously by the most noted artists of 
the classical ballet to be the most influential balletmaster and 
choreographer that has ever lived (among them - George Balanchine, who cited 
Petipa as his primary influence).
He is equally noted for the ballets he created, some of which have survived 
to the present day in versions either faithful to, inspired by, or 
reconstructed from the original - especially The Sleeping Beauty (1890) and 
The Nutcracker (1892).

Dance Word of the Week:
Pas de Deux — In ballet, a pas de deux (French, step/dance for two) is a 
duet in which ballet steps are performed together. It usually   consists of 
an entrée, adagio, two variations (one for each dancer), and a coda.   The 
Sugar Plum Fairy and the Cavalier dance a pas de deux in the second act of 
the Nutcracker Ballet. 

Dance History Fact: 
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King  is a story by E. T. A.  Hoffmann in which 
seven-year-old Marie Stahlbaum's favorite Christmas toy, the Nutcracker, 
comes alive and whisks her away to a   magical kingdom populated by dolls 
after defeating the seven-headed Mouse King. In 1892, the Russian composer 
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreographers Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov 
turned the story into the ballet The Nutcracker, which became Tchaikovsky's 
most famous composition, and the most popular ballet in the world. From a 
historical point of view, “The “Nutcracker” is considered part of 
the “Classical Ballet Era” following the “Romantic Ballet Era.”








Calendar:
Dec.24 - Jan.1  - Winter Holidays
Jan. 7 – 11 – ODC 8th graders field trip to the Visual and Performing Arts 
Academy at Salem HS
Jan. 5, 12, 25   Governor School Auditions
Jan. 21  - No ODC
Jan. 25 and 28  - No ODC
Feb. 1  ODC Dance Applications deadline (Current students do not need to re-
apply). 
Feb. 1   Visual and Performing Arts Academy applications deadline  
Feb. 18 - NO ODC
Feb.25 -29 -  VPAA auditions 

NOTE:   The 8th Graders field trip to the Visual and Performing Arts Academy 
is going to happen during the week of Jan. 7 – Jan. 11.  Parents, please 
make sure you sign your child’s field trip permission slip.
 
Dance department needs - Kleenex and pencils                         Please 
contribute as you are able
Lost and Found - Has your child lost something? There are lots of items in 
our “Lost and Found” bins. 
Encourage your child to check the bins out.


The dance faculty wishes to extend our sincere best wishes
to you and your family for a restful and  peaceful holiday season.  



Enjoy the holidays!  See you back at ODC beginning January 2nd.




Dance Matters - No. 12 - Dec. 3 - 7
A Goodbye from Mrs. Glass

Our ODU teacher intern, Mrs. Glass, has completed her semester of student 
teaching and she will be graduating from ODU in December with a degree in 
dance education.  Congratulations Mrs. Glass! 

Dear ODC Dance family,

      This semester spent at ODC is one that I will carry with me throughout 
my career as a dance educator.  It has opened my eyes to not only the field 
of dance education and what it offers in a public school setting, but it has 
also reassured me of the type of teacher that I am and want to continue to 
be.
       As I carry on the path of obtaining my dream of opening up my own 
dance studio, I will remember the countless things that I learned as well as 
the moments at ODC that touched my heart.  One of the most informational new 
things that I gained from this experience is being exposed to the Language 
of Dance.  It is a great new tool that I have added to my collection and it 
is one that I will use in the future.  I will also never forget the 
overwhelming   feelings that I got when the students allowed their passion 
for dance to shine through and how wonderful it was to have the chance to 
begin my days with warm hugs and such smiling, enthusiastic faces.  
       Only a teacher would understand the joy it gave me when all the 
students on the Thursday tempo team began and continued to execute the 
entire battement tendu combination with the correct head placements.  It is 
little moments like these that make teaching such a great passion of mine.
       At the conclusion of this experience, I feel that the most important 
realization that I made is that a teacher actually learns best from her 
students.  It was really amazing to witness my text book studies come to 
life in the classroom and within each individual.  I am so grateful for the 
students’ hard work in my classes and their willingness to trust me as a 
guide.  It was nice to feel as though the students really respected and 
connected with me in the short amount of time spent here.
         Although taxing at times, I am very blessed for having this 
opportunity.  I know that because of this internship I am better equipped to 
achieve success in the classroom and be the teacher that the students 
deserve.  I thank the faculty for passing along their vast experience and 
believing in me.  The students should feel very blessed for having the 
opportunity to be taught by such wonderful and amazingly talented people.

Yours in Dance, 
Stephanie Glass




When Can I Dance on Pointe?  
The Romantic era ballerina Marie Taglioni is credited as the developer and 
pioneer of the pointe technique. Taglioni first went on pointe with soft 
ballet slippers that had a reinforced toe area, although not nearly as stiff 
as modern pointe shoes. The area was reinforced by stitching around the 
front and sides of the slipper. Unlike today, the moments on pointe were 
very brief and consisted of mostly balanced poses and relevés. 
Today, dancing on pointe is almost like a “rite of passage” for young girls 
taking ballet classes. However, because of the intense physical demands on 
the body from pointe work, many things need to be considered before taking 
this next step in the dancer’s training.   It is usually recommended that 
young girls start dancing on pointe between the ages of ten and fifteen.  
They are not considered ready for pointe work unless they have been studying 
classical ballet for three or more years, with a frequency of two or more 
classes per week. They should also be in an intermediate or advanced level 
of ballet and be able to hold their turnout from the hips while performing 
center combinations. All of this requires careful evaluation on the part of 
the teacher. In some dance academies, a medical professional's advice is 
required to make sure the dancers' feet have ossified sufficiently.  Serious 
foot deformities can result from starting pointe too early. Students must 
not dance on pointe until the bones of their feet are fully developed and 
the muscles in the arches, ankles, legs, pelvic area and abdominals are 
strong enough to bear the weight and the rigors of this training.   
Injuries, such as breaking the ankle, can occur because of weak, untrained 
muscles. Dancing on pointe requires a student to use the entire body for 
support, including the legs and abdominal muscles.  And so, a young dancer 
must be patient and train very carefully and thoroughly before pointe work 
is even considered.

Dance Legend
Lucille Grahn  (June 30, 1819 - April 4, 1907) was the first internationally 
renowned Danish ballerina.  She was trained by Bournonville at the school of 
the Royal Danish Ballet in Copenhagen. In 1843, she made her official debut 
with that company, becoming one of the major ballerinas of the Romantic 
Ballet after her debut at the Paris Opera in 1838.

Dance History Fact:
In the early part of the 19th century, Leon Espinosa, a famous European 
dancer traveled with a troupe up and down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers on 
a flat boat, stopping to perform at major towns.  Often these troupes of 
dancers would camp in the wilderness between towns.  One night Espinosa 
frightened off a band of Native Americans by executing multiple pirouettes 
(turns) and innumerable entrechats huits (jumps in the air with the legs 
beating and changing 4 times)

Dance Word of the Week
Imagery  - using mental pictures to support  dancers’ physical and artistic 
training.
Example:
The skill– landing softer from a jump.
The image - pretend you are landing on soft pillows.
Congratulations to dance faculty member Valerie Winborne and Tuesday dance 
student Desiree Jimenez for having feature stories in the Virginian Pilot. 


Parent/Teacher communication: 
1) MYSCHOOL mail
2) ODC phone number 473-5043
3) Faculty e-mail addresses
Karen Buchheim  - karen.buchheim@vbschools.com
Gwen Spear-Jones –gwen.spear-jones@vbschools.com
Valerie Winborne  - valerie.winborne@vbschools.com
Laura Wright  - laura.wright@vbschools.com
4) TeacherWeb(www.teacherweb.com/VA/Old Donationcenter/MrsWright/)


Dance Calendar: Dates to remember
December 6   City-wide Information Night -   A city-wide information meeting 
will be held with the Dance Education and the Visual Arts faculty members.  
The faculty will describe, explain and answer any questions about these two 
programs.  This meeting is for parents and students interested in applying 
to either of these programs for next year.  

December 17 - 21  The Winter Celebration - This is a time that students, 
teachers, and parents come together to celebrate the conclusion of the dance 
history unit.  Parents are invited to come to studio 1 from 12:00 until 1:30 
on the day your child attends. Students and parents are invited to bring 
food and drink for our “reception.”  Mrs. Spear-Jones will be calling parent 
volunteers from each day to come help set up the tables and serve food.  If 
you turned in a blue volunteer sheet at the beginning of the year, she has 
your number.  If you would like to volunteer and you did not turn in a blue 
sheet, please call her at 473-5043 or e-mail her at 
gwen.spearjones@vbschools.com.  This is a wonderful time to celebrate our 
special dance community.

January 5, 12, 25   Governor School Auditions

February 1    ODC Dance Applications deadline (Current students do not need 
to re-apply). 

February 1   Visual and the Performing Arts Academy applications deadline  

Feb.25 -29 -  VPAA auditions 






Dance Matters  - Number 11  - Nov. 26 -30

Stepping Ahead
If ODC dancers want to continue their dance education after 8th grade in the 
public school system, there are 2 school programs available to Virginia 
Beach students.  
The Visual and Performing Arts Academy (VPAA) at Salem High School offers an 
interdisciplinary curriculum of differentiated academic and applied 
instruction in the arts. Students may focus on one art strand or they may 
choose two as a dual strand participant.  During their four years in the 
program, students participate in 70 master classes. (ODC’s Valerie Winborne 
and Karen Buchheim will be giving master classes at VPAA during Nov., Dec., 
and Jan.)  Sessions range from topic seminars to workshops. In addition, job 
shadowing opportunities and senior year internships provide students with 
hands-on experience. Students are expected to participate in performances 
and exhibitions during their four years at the academy.
In the dance strand, students develop an awareness of the body as an 
instrument of expression. They refine their skills in dance technique and 
choreography, and increase their ability to move artistically. Exposure to 
great master dance works allow students to analyze the special 
characteristics of noted performers, choreographers, critics, as well as 
understand how these individuals have shaped the history of dance.
Many dancers from ODC audition and are accepted into the academy each year. 
All of these dancers feel they received excellent training at ODC that fully 
prepare them for the academy dance program at Salem High School.  Students 
like that they fell included with the rest of the school and that they are 
able to participate in all school functions. Many of the dancers are school 
cheerleaders and belong to several clubs and organizations. The students 
also liked that they do not have to leave the school grounds to participate 
in dance.
Written applications are due to home school guidance counselors by Friday, 
February 1, 2008.  Dance auditions are scheduled for February 26 -  February 
29, 2008. Information regarding requirements for the appropriate 
audition/portfolio are available from Salem High School.  Download an 
Academy application in pdf format. A selection committee will review the 
applications of all qualified applicants; applicants will then be scheduled 
for auditions/portfolio review. Dance auditions include a dance class, solo 
performance, and an interview.  Student notification will be mailed to 
applicants in the spring.  For more information go to 
http://www.vbschools.com/curriculum/academyprog/index.asp
Previous ODC dancers  attending the academy are: Jasmine Crump, Shanay 
Glass, Mary Lukasiewicz, Lindsey Conner, Laura Sorady, Mini Evans, Chanae 
Joyner, Camisha Leak, Alex Payton, Robert Frazier, Kia Haley, Jessica 
Keesler, Alyssa Trower, Kenisha Washington, and Marlita Shaw-Brown. This 
year will be the first graduating class from the academy. 
Some important dates for Salem are:
January 9 - Visual and Performing Arts Academy night at Salem HS.  All 
interested in the academy should attend.
January 18 - 19 -  Academy Showcase (all strands) at Salem HS.
Feb.1 -  Applications deadline
Feb.25- 29  -  VPAA auditions 	
May 2-3  -   Dance Showcase	

The Governor's School is a regional fine and performing arts high school 
serving the school divisions of Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Virginia 
Beach, Suffolk, Isle of Wight, Franklin and Southampton.  Students are 
admitted by audition.  There are programs in Dance, Theatre, Musical 
Theatre, Instrumental Music, Vocal Music and Visual Arts.  Students in 
grades 8-11 are eligible to apply.  Applications are available at the 
guidance departments of the public schools and auditions will take place on 
January 5, 12 and 25.  Dance students are required to complete a class which 
includes ballet, modern dance, jazz and improvisation.  The average 
enrollment in the department is sixty students.  The department operates at 
the TRDance Center, located in the cultural center of downtown Norfolk. 
Students major in either ballet or modern dance and perform in both 
traditional and non-traditional settings. Curriculum includes modern, ballet 
and jazz technique classes, pointe, Pas de Deux, the Pilates Method of Body 
Conditioning, tap, anatomy and kinesiology for dancers, rhythmic analysis, 
dance history, improvisation and choreography. Complete information is 
available on the web at gsarts.net. 
Dance Department performances:
January 11, 12, 2008   - Winter Concert   -  University Theatre 
Feb 28, 2008-   Celebration of Black History Month-   TRDance Center 
May 17, 2008 - 20th Anniversary Celebration Gala - Sandler Center
Former ODC /Governor’s School graduates include:
Alison Zamorski- class 0f 1999- Nashville Ballet; Rachel Buschert- class of 
1999- NYU Tisch School of the Arts Graduate, Independent choreographer in 
NYC ; Chris Hutchins- class of 1999, Independent  choreographer in NYC





Dance Calendar: Dates to remember
December 6 -City –Wide Information Night    
A city -wide information meeting will be held with the Dance Education and 
the  Visual Arts faculty members.  The faculty will describe, explain and 
answer any questions about these two programs.  This meeting is for parents 
and students interested in applying to either of these programs for next 
year.  
December 17 – 21  The Winter Celebration  
This is a time that students, teachers, and parents come together to 
celebrate the conclusion of the dance history unit.  Parents are invited to 
come to studio 1 from 12:00 until 1:30 on the day your child attends. 
Students and parents are invited to bring food and drink for 
our “reception.”  Mrs. Spear-Jones will be calling parent volunteers from 
each day to come help set up the tables and serve food.  If you turned in a 
blue volunteer sheet at the beginning of the year, she has your number.  If 
you would like to volunteer and you did not turn in a blue sheet, please 
call her at 473-5043 or e-mail her at gwen.spear-jones@vbschools.com.  This 
is a wonderful time to celebrate our special dance community.
January 5, 12, 25 - Governor School Auditions
February 1 - ODC Dance Applications deadline (Current students do not need 
to re-apply). Applications are due
February 1  - Visual and The Performing Arts applications deadline  - 
Feb. 25 –29  -  VPAA auditions 

Note:  Parents, please sign your child’s parent packet in the lower right 
side by “Report Cards- Unit 1.”  We want to make sure you received your 
child’s evaluation.

Dance Legend: Jules Perrot 
(August 18, 1810 -   August 18, 1892) was a dancer and choreographer who 
later became Ballet master of the  Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg, 
Russia. He created some of the most famous ballets of the 19th century 
including Pas de Quatre, La Esmeralda, Ondine, and Giselle with Jean 
Coralli. Perrot danced often with the great Romantic ballerina, Marie 
Taglioni but their partnership was short-lived. She eventually refused to 
dance with him fearing that he would outshine her.

Dance Word of the Week:
Artistry– the ability to perform with skill, creativity, style, flair, 
mastery, and talent.

Dance History Fact: 
When Fanny Elssler performed in the United States, a session of the U.S. 
Congress was dismissed so its members could attend the performance. Excited 
fans detached her carriage from its horses and pulled it through the 
streets. 
Parent/Teacher communication: 
1) MYSCHOOL mail
2) ODC phone number 473-5043
3) Faculty e-mail addresses
Karen Buchheim  - karen.buchheim@vbschools.com
Gwen Spear-Jones –  gwen.spear-jones@vbschools.com
Valerie Winborne  -  valerie.winborne@vbschools.com
Laura Wright  - laura.wright@vbschools.com
4) TeacherWeb(www.teacherweb.com/VA/Old Donationcenter/MrsWright/).




Dance Matters - Number 10   Nov. 14 -20

We are Thankful for Our Parents and Students

Parent Visitation Week was busy and special…
During the week of Oct.29th – Nov.2nd, parents came to visit the ODC Dance 
classes.  They observed their children in technique classes (ballet, modern, 
jazz and/or fundamentals classes) and Dance Perspectives class (students 
were researching the Romantic Ballet period.)  It was wonderful matching 
parents with their children.

There was a special moment when a parent came up and said,
” I was a student in this program about 15 years ago.  I attended ODC when I 
was in the 4th, 5th and 6th grades.  I remembered Mrs. B.  And now my 
daughter is a student here as a 3rd grader.”
That is a big WOW!  -  Mother and daughter sharing their ODC dance 
experiences from a very unique perspective.

Other Parent comments:
Mrs. Wall (mother of Haley – a Wednesday student and Amanda – a Thursday 
student) said - “By taking dance at ODC, both my daughters have a stronger 
dance technique --- plus they enjoy being here.”
Mrs. Hansen (mother of Chelsea – a Wednesday student) said, “I had no idea 
that GRT’s were these students’ advocates. You mean they can help ODC 
students find strategies to juggle the work load between the 2 schools?  
This will be particularly helpful for my daughter.”
We are thankful for our supportive parents!!!!


8th Graders are thankful to be in the ODC Dance program because:
-  It has prepared me for life and has taught me so much:  how to cooperate 
with others, work as a team, and just juggle everything.    Kate Cashwell –
Tuesday
-  I love to dance and here is where I can do it!       Kady Munden  - Friday
-  I am grateful that I am in the ODC Dance program because not everybody 
gets to dance here.  I have dance instructors that have experience and 
really help me to learn all these dance techniques .  Lauren Riley  - Tuesday
-  I was chosen from a large amount of people.  I am able to practice 
different forms of dance all in one day.    Melissa Baka - Wednesday
-  It gives me a chance to express myself and work on my technique.  Khari 
Johnson  - Monday
-  I get a chance to learn about the history of dance and get to experience 
all kinds of dances.  I get to learn new techniques.    Allison Marshall – 
Tuesday
-  I get to dance for almost a full school day and I learn new things.    
Beth Turner  - Thursday
-  Attending ODC and my other dance studio helps  me build up technique. 
This prepares me for Governor’s School - Jasmine Ambrosio – Monday
We are thankful for our wonderful students!!!!
Dance Evaluations Coming Home this Week
Today your child received his/her dance program evaluation for the first 
grading period.  This evaluation format aligns with our program goals 
highlighting areas that are fundamental to our curriculum.  The numbers on 
the evaluation represent a marking code, not letter grade.  To receive a “3” 
means that your child is doing exactly as we had hoped: improving steadily 
in the skills and concepts taught during the unit. A”2” means that this is 
an area of concern to which we will be paying special attention.  A”4” means 
that the student has performed above our expectations and a “5” means that 
the student has consistently performed above our expectations and has 
mastered more of the difficult skills.  Very few”5’s” are given out.  The 
initial in the upper right side of the boxes represents the teacher that 
taught the class.  If you have any questions, please contact any one of the 
dance teachers.

The Winter Celebration:  December 17 – 21
This is a time that students, teachers, and parents come together to 
celebrate the conclusion of the dance history unit.  Parents are invited to 
come to studio 1 from 12:00 until 1:30 on the day your child attends. 
Students and parents are invited to bring food and drink for 
our “reception.”  Mrs. Spear-Jones will be calling parent volunteers from 
each day to help come and set up the tables and serve food.  If you turned 
in a blue volunteer sheet  at the beginning of the year, she has your 
number.  If you would like to volunteer and you did not turn in a blue 
sheet, please call her at 473-5043 or e-mail her at gwen.spear-
jones@vbschools.com.  This is a wonderful time to celebrate our special 
dance community.

And Now A Word From the Dance Fashion Bureau...
HELP!!!  -   Dance Hair Bun Explosions in Dance Studios!!
There are many hair buns that are not making it through the day.   
They “explode” into either pony tails or roll all the way down.  Parents, 
please help your daughter fix her hair into a secure bun before she comes to 
ODC dance. The bun should be so secure that it would survive your daughter 
jumping up and down many, many times and stay absolutely still.  It should 
also be placed on her head so she can lie on the floor and the bun will not 
hamper any movement. Check the student hand book for a guide as to how to do 
a correct ballet bun.  We do want our students to be able to do their own 
hair, but for the younger students they still might need a little help.
Let’s reduce this amazing exploding bun phenomenon.

Holey tights - Not to be confused with holy tights.
It seems that there are quite a few dancers that are dancing so hard, they 
are putting holes in their tights in all kinds of places. Please check your 
child’s tights and make sure all tights are whole!


A Shoeless Ballet Dancer??!!   
All dancers Need to have ballet shoes. Ballet shoes are a must!  If there is 
a question about these shoes, please do not hesitate to call a dance teacher.

Dance Calendar: Dates to remember
December 6  -City –wide information night  A city -wide information meeting 
will be held with the Dance Education and the Visual Arts faculty members.  
The faculty will describe, explain and answer any questions about these two 
programs.  This meeting is for parents and students interested in applying 
to either of these programs for next year.  Deadline for dance and art 
applications is Friday, February 1.  Current students do not need to re-
apply.
December 17 – 21 Winter Celebration - The culmination of our dance history 
unit.  Detailed information in this edition of “Dance Matters.”


Dance History Fact:  During the Romantic Ballet era, women were not credited 
as choreographers on printed programs, although some did fill these roles.  
Being credited as a choreographer was a 20th century breakthrough for women.

Dance Legend: 
Fanny Cerrito, (May 11, 1817 – May 6, 1909), was an Italian ballet dancer 
and choreographer. Born in Naples, she studied under Carlo Blasis and the 
French choreographers Jules Perrot and Arthur Saint-Léon, to the latter of 
whom she was married from 1845 – 1851. Notable roles included Ondine and Pas 
de Quatre (1845).

Dance Word of the Week:  
Skills: technical abilities, specific movement or combinations of movements

Parent/Teacher communication: 
1) MYSCHOOL mail
2) ODC phone number 473-5043
3) Faculty e-mail addresses
Karen Buchheim  - karen.buchheim@vbschools.com
Gwen Spear-Jones - gwen.spear-jones@vbschools.com
Valerie Winborne  -  valerie.winborne@vbschools.com
Laura Wright  - laura.wright@vbschools.com
4) TeacherWeb(www.teacherweb.com/VA/Old Donationcenter/MrsWright/).



“We dance for laughter, we dance for tears, we dance for madness, we dance 
for fears, we dance for hopes, we dance for screams, we are the dancers, we 
create the dreams.”
(Author unknown)



Happy Thanksgiving from the Dancing Turkey!
http://www.xmission.com/~dk/images/misc/turkey_dancing.gif






Dance Matters - No.9 - Nov. 7 - 13

boys don’t dance  -  OH YES  THEY DO!

There's a scene in the movie, "Shall We Dance?" in which a motley crew of 
men finds itself in a ballroom dance class. It's the first session, and each 
student feels compelled to explain the reason he's taking the class — one 
guy's fiancée wants him to lose weight, another wants to impress the ladies, 
and the third, just wants to get to know the dance instructor.  Though it 
turns out to be the case, none of the men is brave enough to say, "I like to 
dance."  Despite the undeniably cool moves of Gene Kelly, Mikhail 
Baryshnikov, Savion Glover and countless MTV b-boys, our culture still 
harbors a weird taboo about men dancing.  With television shows 
like, “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance”, dance is 
becoming more accessible to the general population.  This accessibility 
brings an awareness of the potential power and strength of male dancers.  
However, still for many, the idea of men dancing is a hard concept to 
accept.  There is, to some degree, a prejudice in our country towards boys 
and men who dance.  Ours is one of the last countries to recognize and 
accept the fact that men can dance as a way of expression or dance for the 
sheer physicality of the art form.
Football players know of the physical demands of dance, specifically ballet, 
all too well. American football is a sport hardly known for its grace and 
poise, but many players have swapped their pads for points, to do ballet. 
Ballet dancers are renowned for their agility; they are able to leap, land 
and turn with, well… with balletic grace. This has led researchers and 
sports team players and coaches to experiment with ballet and other dance 
forms as a conditioning method. Super Bowl winner and former top high-
hurdler Willie Gault was one such player who believed his on-field 
performance and resistance to injury was enhanced by ballet. Ballet has in 
fact been used within American football since the 1970s. 
At ODC, there are 25 boys enrolled in the dance program.  They all come on 
Thursday, dress out in dance attire and take on an intense study of dance 
from a technical, creative, scientific and historic perspective.  It takes a 
degree of courage for a young male, especially a middle school student, to 
come week after week to dance.  Two of our middle school boys share their 
thoughts, reflections and reasons why they keep coming to dance.  Just never 
tell these young men, “boys don’t dance.”   They have NO problem telling 
you”I like to dance and yes, I AM a dancer!”

I am a Dancer—by Dalton Henderson
 I have attended ODC for 5 years, so far.  I look forward to attending 
through my 8th grade year.  I was in 3rd grade when I started attending ODC 
for dance.
I am grateful that I am in the ODC Dance program because it gives me a 
chance to discover the language of dance.  Also, I get to learn different 
dance styles, techniques and dance vocabulary.  Coming to ODC has taught me 
how to manage my time wisely.  
I keep coming back each year because I am always learning something new.  I 
always see new details in dances that I haven’t seen before.  I always learn 
new things from and about my teachers.
I juggle my work at both my schools by always going to see my teachers for 
the work that I have missed.  Also, if I have missed taking a test, I always 
study the night before again and take the test the next day I am at my home 
school.  I discuss any problems that I might be having with my teachers at 
both ODC and my home school.
I also do my homework on the day it is given to me; I find that this helps 
me stay caught up.
I am most proud of being here at ODC for dance because of how much I have 
learned and grown over the past 5 years.  I look at the videos of the 
performances of my first couple of years and see how much I have grown in 
technique and ability.
My toughest time at ODC was my first year.  At first, I didn't know anything 
about dance technique or its different styles. I have danced hip hop all of 
my life and knew very little about ballet and modern.  I knew nothing about 
how dance affects everyday life and your body.  Being in the 3rd grade and 
juggling my work between schools seemed hard at first.  But after a few 
weeks of dance and working with my teachers at both schools, I finally 
learned to manage all of it.
The difference in when I first arrived at ODC and now is pretty big.  When I 
first starting coming to ODC, I was nervous and I didn't know what to 
expect.  I also thought all we were going to do was dance.  Boy was I 
wrong!!!!  WRONG, WRONG, WRONG!!!  Now, every week when I come to dance, I 
always come to learn new things and improve on my dance techniques.  I have 
learned that every dance style has its own vocabulary (there are a lot of 
words).
As a boy in dance, I usually combine technique, power and expressions in 
every part of the body. I have found that my dance has helped me in all 
parts of my life.  My dancing has helped me so much with my wrestling and 
football.  It has helped me find my balance, strength and agility. 
My best memories would be just coming to ODC having some of the best 
teachers in the dance industry, learning from them, having fun and learning 
how to express myself through dance.


I Am a Dancer by Marquis Hitchcock-Jones
 Being a boy dancer hasn’t been easy.  Sometimes you are called names and 
teased, but doing something I love is worth it.  All of the negative 
criticism didn’t break me down, it only made me stronger.  As a dancer, I 
have made new friends, expanded my dance technique and followed my dream.  
My true friends have always been here for me.  I have been put through many 
challenges. I have had to wear tights and ballet shoes.  It wasn’t as bad as 
I realized.  At first I thought my teachers were out to get me, but I 
realized that it is only standard dance wear.  This is my 5th year in the 
ODC Dance program and if I can do it I know you can!  Just believe in 
yourself! 


New Schedule for unit 2
This week marks the beginning of the second grading period.  ODC Dance 
evaluations will come home next week.  There will be an explanation about 
them in next week’s newsletter.
The schedules of teachers have changed so that all of the teachers have the 
opportunity to work with each student.  We will move forward in technique 
and creative dance classes to cover new skills, new concepts and new 
vocabulary words.
In Dance Perspectives class, we will continue our study of the Romantic 
Ballet period.  The students will complete this unit of study with a 
summative project which will be presented in class.  This unit will end with 
a festive celebration during the week of Dec.17-21.  All parents are 
welcomed to come.  


Dance Legends
Mikhail Baryshnikov (b January 27, 1948) is a Soviet-born American dancer, 
choreographer, and actor. He is often called the world's greatest living 
male ballet dancer.  When he was twelve, his mother enrolled him in School 
of the Theatre Opera Ballet in Riga. His dancing is renowned for its 
textbook form, technical brilliance, and emotional detachment, as well as 
its use of "bravada," meaning masculine, daring dancing.


Dance Calendar: Dates to remember
November 7th - 2nd unit starts
November 14 -20   - Dance Evaluations are given out
December 6 -City –wide information night  A city -wide information meeting 
will be held with the Dance Education and the Visual Arts faculty members.  
The faculty will describe, explain and answer any questions about these two 
programs.  This meeting is for parents and students interested in applying 
to either of these programs for next year.  Deadline for dance and art 
applications is Friday, February 1.  Current students do not need to re-
apply.
December 17 – 21 Winter Celebration - This is the culmination of our dance 
history unit. Parents are invited to join us for this celebration.  More 
details about this event will be in next week’s “Dance Matters.”


Dance Word of the Week:
Inspiration:  the excitement of the mind, emotions or imagination


Dance History Fact: 
Pas de Quatre is a ballet divertissement choreographed by Jules Perrot in 
1845.   On the night it premiered in London, it caused a sensation from the 
critics and the public alike. The reason for this was that it brought 
together on one stage the four greatest ballerinas of the time. The 
ballerinas were, in order of appearance, Lucile Grahn, Carlotta Grisi, Fanny 
Cerrito, and Marie Taglioni. The order of appearance was done by age, from 
youngest to oldest, to stop further confrontations between them.

A Thought :  
Acceptance notices what exists and describes it.
Acceptance is the cornerstone of unconditional love.
Dr. Becky Bailey from
Conscious Discipline

Parents - Thank you so much for making our Parent Visitation Week  SO 
successful! It was wonderful meeting you all.  You don’t need to wait for 
a “special week “to visit us. Please visit us any time. Just call and let us 
know you are coming.








Dance Matters No.8 - Oct.29 - Nov.2 

One in Dance/One in Music by Laura Wright

The Tempo & Space teams have been studying the relationship of dance to the 
elements of music in their creative dance classes. The rhythmic skills can 
be tricky to learn! First, we paid close attention to the beat and practiced 
performing movements/actions that took 8, 4, or 2 counts. So often, young 
dancers want to dance fast and do something on each beat. However, a 
choreographer learns to create interesting movement rhythms by changing the 
length of time, or duration, of the movements. The students have learned to 
read and create a rhythmic score that is based on the way rhythms are 
notated in Language of Dance. 
	Next we paid close attention to the speed of the beat, or the tempo. 
We found that the tempo can have a lot to do with the mood or feeling of a 
piece of music or a dance. Dances performed at a different tempo than 
originally planned can express very different ideas (and be hard to do!) 
	Now we are using instruments that create sounds that last for 
several beats to match the longer movements. Some of the favorite 
instruments we’ve used are electric pianos, thunder sticks and rain sticks. 
The dancers have learned to play rhythms on the various instruments, even 
while they’re dancing – not a simple task! Their final dances will combine 
all of the elements of music that they have learned (the beat, tempo and 
duration) with the elements of dance we have studied (action, direction and 
traveling). 
	I have always loved both music and dance. I studied the piano and 
the flute as a child and I actually received two degrees from my college – 
one in dance and one in music! The Erick Hawkins Dance Company always 
traveled with our own orchestra, so I always got to perform to live music. 
What a treat! Learning to understand music and really listen to it is an 
important part of dance training that is often overlooked or taken for 
granted. These teams have done a great job learning to be musicians and 
choreographers during this unit.

No Hogs, No Logs, No Bogs
“Just work together.”, “There’s no “I” in teamwork.”, “Everybody must share 
ideas and listen to each other.”  All these statements are wonderful and 
worthy concepts yet extremely difficult to achieve.  Understanding how to be 
a successful team member is an important part of your child’s education in 
the dance program. Students are learning the value of creating movement 
collaboratively and also the special challenges that come  from this type of 
work.  In creative dance class, students work in small groups to create 
short dance studies.  They are taught that all must try to share and respect 
each other’s ideas, all must try to listen and really hear what is being 
said and finally, and possibly the hardest, they must try to understand how 
to compromise.  (Compromise is a concept world leaders have been working on 
for centuries.) This last one can be difficult, especially if there is an 
emotional investment in a particular idea.  Sometimes that “great idea” does 
not fit into an overall dance theme, and changes and even cuts must be made. 
Accepting that this is part of the collaborative process is a big step in 
understanding the role of being a good team member.  For the past two weeks, 
students have been exploring various team members’ roles.  Just ask your 
child what the phrase, “no hogs, no logs, or no bogs” means.  It could be an 
interesting dinner table conversation. 
Dance Legend –
Carlotta Grisi was an Italian ballet dancer. She was born on June 28, 1819 
and died on May 20, 1899. She trained with dancer/ballet master Jules 
Perrot. Through Perrot's contacts, the pair worked in Paris, London, Vienna, 
Munich, and Milan where she sang and danced. Of her two talents, it was her 
dancing that was acclaimed. By dancing Perrot's choreography, which at that 
time was receiving great attention, she gained notable attention of both the 
public and the critics. Her greatest role however was that of Giselle.
Dance History Fact – 
The Romantic era marked the rise of the ballerina as a central part of 
ballet, where previously men had dominated performances.

Dance Word of the Week – 
Technique - A procedure or method for accomplishing a complicated task. In 
dance, technique refers to the development of the dancer's physical and 
artistic skills. 

Dance Calendar: 

November 2 - End of First Grading Period.

November 5th -6th – Staff Day -Parent conferences as needed.  Please call 
the ODC office if you would like to schedule a conference with the dance 
teachers. (473-5043)

December 6 -City –wide information night  A city -wide information meeting 
will be held with the Dance Education and the Visual Arts faculty members.  
The faculty will describe, explain and answer any questions about these two 
programs.  This meeting is for parents and students interested in applying 
to either of these programs for next year.  Deadline for dance and art 
applications is Friday, February 1.  Current students do not need to re-
apply.

December 17 – 21 Winter Celebration – This is the culmination of our dance 
history unit.  More information to follow

A Thought :  
Encouragement is basically a dose of hope.  People need hope to feel safe. 
   from Conscious Discipline by Dr. Becky Bailey

Everything in the universe has rhythm.  Everything dances.    
Maya Angelou






Dance Matters No.7 - Oct.22-26

LOD Stands for Language of Dance by Karen Buchheim  
           The Language of Dance® also known as Motif Notation (developed by 
Ann Hutchinson Guest) is a system for graphically representing and recording 
movement. It is closely related to Labanotation, a system for accurately 
recording choreography in a precise and detailed manner for use in 
reconstruction of great works of dance. 
Motif notation is used in a freer, more exploratory way for teaching the 
prime movement actions universal to all movement forms. It provides an 
accessible link to movement for participants of all ages and skill levels, 
as well as an easy introduction to dance literacy through the visual symbols 
and clear movement vocabulary.
We use the Language of Dance Movement Alphabet as a support and aide to 
understanding of movement concepts in various technique and creative dance 
classes. Just as music students read a musical score, so dance students can 
read and write dance using this method. The use of this method supports the 
relationship of movement to music in terms of rhythm and dynamics. 
Ask your child to give you an example of how the movement alphabet has been 
used in their classes this unit.
I am always amazed at how quickly the students pick up this unique symbol 
language. I have been video taping the level III/IV creative dance class 
exercises recently, and I enjoy the connections the students make from LOD 
work to their other dance classes. Today, for example, the student’s dance 
score called for them to execute a two beat turn led by the right shoulder 
followed by a two beat turn led by the left shoulder. “Wow!” said one of the 
students. “We’re doing a Tassle Turn!” (a movement they had been working on 
in Mrs. Wright’s modern dance class.) I love it when they find those cross-
over connections. It gives real meaning to the work.

(editor’s note:  Mrs. Buchheim is in her final stages of work before she 
receives her full certification in the Language of Dance)

Cold Weather Finally Here -   Maybe?  
With the temperatures starting to go down, we ask you to help your child 
remember to bring a tight-fitting, long-sleeved, solid colored shirt or 
dance sweater to ODC.  They can use these sweaters/shirts in their technique 
classes, but the shirts must be tight fitting. We need to see the dancer’s 
body clearly in order to help them improve their alignment and muscle usage, 
but we also want them to be warm if the studio is chilly.   

Just Sign Right Here -  On the Parent Packet
We thank you for regularly signing your child’s dance parent packet.  By 
your signature, we know that our dance information is getting to you.  To 
clarify which line to sign, look at the front page of the newsletter and 
check the number.  The number on the newsletter should correspond to the 
line that you sign.  Example: This week’s newsletter is No. 7, so please 
sign line 7.  
Dance Legend - Alvin Ailey, dancer and choreographer was born January 5, 
1931 in Rogers, Texas. After training in New York City with Martha Graham 
and others, he founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, which 
was a hugely popular, multi-racial modern dance ensemble. The company 
popularized modern dance around the world thanks to tours sponsored by the 
U.S. State Department. His most famous dance, Revelations, is based on 
Ailey's own experience of growing up African American in the rural South and 
is a celebratory study of religious spirit. He retired from the stage in 
1965 to devote himself to his company. Ailey received the Kennedy Center 
Honors in 1988 and died a year later.
Dance History Fact     The Romantic period in ballet occurred in the early 
to mid 1800s, and roughly corresponds to Romanticism movements in art and 
literature. Like these movements, 'Romantic ballet's focused on the conflict 
between man and nature, society and supernatural. The Romantic period in 
ballet occurred in the early to mid 1800s, and roughly corresponds to 
Romanticism movements in art and literature. Like these movements, 'Romantic 
ballet's focused on the conflict between man and nature, society and 
supernatural.


Dance Word of the Week – Choreographer       Choreography is the art of 
making dances, and the person who does this is called a choreographer. 
Choreography (literally "dance-writing", also known as "dance composition"), 
is the art of making structures in which movement occurs. The term 
composition may also refer to the navigation or connection of these movement 
structures. The resulting movement structure may also be referred to as the 
choreography. So people who create choreographies are called choreographers.

Dance Calendar : Coming soon!
Oct. 29 – Nov. 2: Parent Visitation Week
Parents are cordially invited to come and watch their child’s classes on the 
day of attendance from 8:30 until 10:45 AM.  Unfortunately, we do not have 
space in the cafeteria for parents to stay for lunch.

November 2 - End of First Grading Period.

November 5th -6th – Staff Day - Parent conferences as needed.  Please call 
the ODC office if you would like to schedule a conference with the dance 
teachers. (473-5043)

December 6  -City –wide information night  A city -wide information meeting 
will be held with the Dance Education and the Visual Arts faculty members.  
The faculty will describe, explain and answer any questions about these two 
programs.  This meeting is for parents and students interested in applying 
to either of these programs for next year.  Deadline for dance and art 
applications is Friday, February 1.  Current students do not need to re-apply

December 17 – 21 Winter Celebration - The culmination of our dance history 
unit.  More information to follow

A Thought :
“When children are upset, offer empathy or positive intent first, then ask 
questions and facilitate problem solving.” From Conscious Discipline by Dr. 
Becky Bailey









Dance Matters - Newsletter no.6 - Oct.15-19

Dance Perspectives – My Point of View, Your Point of View –WOW! They Are 
BOTH “Cool” Points of View 
In the Dance Education program we investigate dance from many perspectives 
or points of view - from the point of view of a dancer, choreographer, 
historian, dance critic and anthropologist.  For the past several weeks in 
the dance perspectives class, we have watched a video of the famous 
classical ballet, Giselle, from those points of view.   Analyzing sections 
of this ballet, we found that the ballet told a story in movement and had 
elements of realism and fantasy.  Comparisons were made to a dance style 
from India called the Kathakali and a hula from Hawaii.   Like Giselle, 
these dances told a story in movement and gesture.
Teaching our young dancers to look at dance from these many perspectives, we 
deepen their understanding of the world around them and how dance reflects 
the attitudes of the people in various societies and cultures.  This unit of 
study bridges us into an investigation of the Romantic Ballet period - the 
19th century.  Our students will be looking up facts, watching videos and 
discussing this important time frame in ballet history.  Be sure to ask them 
to tell you something about the Romantic Ballet period from their perspective



Oh No!  I left my Binder in the Dressing Room
Fortunately we are not hearing that statement too often. We have a small 
room where the dancers store their backpacks, outer layers of clothing and 
any thing they don’t need for their dance day.  As part of being responsible 
students, we ask that they are prepared when they leave that room.  This 
means they have an extra article of clothing to wear to the cafeteria, 
binder, parent packet, home work and ballet shoes.  We have given the 
students four weeks to get into the habit of leaving the dressing area 
prepared and gently, or sometimes not so gently, reminding them to have 
everything.
We are now locking this room and not letting students back in after the 
start of the day.  Hopefully all students will be prepared when they come 
out of the dressing room and ready to dance, dance, dance!

Dance Vocabulary
Your child has growing lists of many dance vocabulary words from their 
technique classes, creative dance class and perspectives class.  These words 
help the dancers understand their movements and their bodies more fully.  
These words also act as tools, giving dancers a way of talking about and 
describing dance in an insightful and more thorough way. Take a look at 
their vocabulary lists to see how far your child has come in his or her 
knowledge of dance since the beginning of the year.  Many of these lists are 
posted on the TeacherWeb site at:
www.teacherweb.com/VA/OldDonationCenter/MrsWright/

Dance Calendar : Coming up...
                    Oct.29 – Nov.2: Parent Visitation Week
                    Parents are cordially invited to come and watch their 
child’s classes on the day 
of                                                                           
                     attendance from 8:30 until 10:45 AM.  
                    Unfortunately, we do not have space in the cafeteria for 
parents to stay for 
lunch.                                                                       
                             
                     November 2  - End of First Grading Period.
November 5th - 6th – Staff Day  -  Parent conferences as needed.
December 6  City –wide information night   -   Old Donation Center  - 6:30 
p.m.
A city -wide information meeting will be held with the Dance Education and 
the Visual Arts faculty members.  The faculty will describe, explain and 
answer any questions about these two programs.  This meeting is for parents 
and students interested in applying to either of these programs for next 
year.  

The deadline for dance and art applications is Friday,   February 1.

Dance History Fact:
The word Ballet is derived from the Italian word, Ballare, meaning to dance, 
and Ballo, which refers to dances performed in the ballroom.

Dance Legend 
Martha Graham (May 11, 1894 - April 1,1991)
She was born in Pennsylvania, lived in California and from there began 
studying dance. She taught dance and became one of the 20th century's best 
known choreographers as a pioneer of modern dance. Her dances were rooted in 
muscle tension and relaxation; to some, this looked more awkward than the 
classical-rooted movement of Isadora Duncan. 

Dance Word of the Week:
Plie — This French word means to bend.  This step is used in all dance 
technique classes and is probably one of the most important movements a 
dance student learns. 


                          Attention to the 8th Grade Dance students and 
parents
     The Salem Performing Arts Academy Field Trip has been cancelled.  The 
trip will be rescheduled for another time.

Parent/Teacher communication: 
1) MYSCHOOL mail
2) ODC phone number 473-5043
3) Faculty e-mail addresses
Karen Buchheim  - karen.buchheim@vbschools.com
Gwen Spear-Jones – gwen.spear-jones@vbschools.com
Valerie Winborne  - valerie.winborne@vbschools.com
Laura Wright  - laura.wright@vbschools.com
4) TeacherWeb(www.teacherweb.com/VA/Old Donationcenter/MrsWright/).




Dance Matters  - Number 5  -   Oct. 8 -12

Dance faculty: Meet Mrs. Spear-Jones...
Dear ODC Dance Community - Students and Parents,
     I’d like to share one of my favorite dance pictures and two important 
moments in my life as a young dancer.  I’m fond of this picture because even 
though my form leaves a lot to be desired (check out those “lobster claw” 
ballet hands and “limp noodle” legs), I remember how excited about dance I 
was even at five years old.  My mom could barely get this tutu off my body.  
I wanted to sleep, eat and go to school in it.  Yes, it was a little weird.  
I just couldn’t get enough of this magic world of dance.  This was much to 
my mom’s delight because it gave her about 50 minutes of peace.  I was a 
child that was always on the move.  I went right from crawling to running, 
so my mom was always chasing me except when I was in dance class.  When I 
was dancing, she was resting.
     The first important moment in my young life as a young dancer was when 
I got my first pointe shoes.  At the time, I thought that day would NEVER 
come.  I realize now what a wonderful ballet teacher I had, but back then I 
couldn’t understand why she was being so “mean” and not letting me get those 
most prized shoes.  She made me wait.  She was determined not to put any of 
her students on pointe until our legs, spine and ankles were strong enough 
to handle the physical demands of pointe work. Unfortunately there are many 
dance teachers that aren’t so wise and knowledgeable and put students on 
pointe much too early.  I count my blessings that I had such an incredible 
teacher.  I waited four long years, taking dance class twice and sometime’s 
three times a week, when finally she said I was ready. At age twelve I 
received my first pair of shoes and it was as if I had gone to heaven - - 
Well that was until the blisters came.
     The second important moment was when I was accepted into the North 
Carolina School for the Arts, a prestigious school where students from the 
seventh grade through college age came to study their chosen field of the 
performing arts - dance, music or drama.  At this school, students lived on 
campus and attended both arts and academic classes. So when I was fifteen, I 
packed up my bags and left home to pursue my dreams of becoming a dancer.  
For the next five years I lived, ate and breathed dance.  Even summers for 
me were usually spent in a dance camp.
       When I arrived at this school, I realized that I had truly found my 
community.  Students just like me had a passion and love for the arts.  
Little did I know however, how demanding this school was going to be.  My 
day would start at 8:00 with a dance class, followed by academic classes, 
followed by another dance class, then more academics, followed by another 
dance class and then dance rehearsals.  Somewhere in there, we ate, slept 
and studied.  I can’t imagine how I got through such a rigorous schedule. I 
do remember being tired, sore, and sometimes frustrated with the intensity 
of the school, but I also remember never wavering, never wanting to give up 
on my dream of becoming a dancer.
        Today, dancing has remained as important to me as it was when I was 
that little girl.  Over the past 40 years, I have performed in many 
different cities and on all kinds of stages, choreographed a body of 
different dance works, taught students of all ages, from 80 down to 5, 
danced in museums and churches, and I am still amazed at the power of dance 
in my life and the lives of others.    	
          When I look into the eyes of my ODC students, I often see my own 
eyes from many years ago - eager to step into that magic world of dance.  
The second picture illustrates that yes, there have been some changes 
(wrinkles and wider girth aside). I have learned to hold my hands and legs 
in the proper position, but what hasn’t changed is my love for dance. And 
even though my body has slowed down, my heart still races when the music 
begins. 
Yours in 
Dance,                                                                       
                      
Mrs. Spear-Jones




Parents’ Information
Bodies At Work 
Dance is the only art of which we ourselves are the stuff of which it is 
made.  ~Ted Shawn

As dancers our bodies are our instruments.  Like violinists who have to tune 
their violins prior to performing, dancers have to tune their bodies in 
order to grow stronger and more secure in their technical skills.  This 
body “tuning” is not easy and it requires a lot of hard work, determination 
and commitment.

Dancers solidify their technical skills in ballet, fundamentals, modern and 
jazz classes.  Technical skills are specific building blocks of dance; such 
as stabilizing spinal alignment, sharpening movement sequencing, 
strengthening bodies, understanding rhythm nuances and performing with a 
sense of artistic expression.  The students are not only using their minds 
but they are also using their muscles! Your child may discover muscles 
he/she never thought they had.  The dance teachers believe in teaching these 
technique classes in an exact, careful and thorough approach.  In doing 
this, the students are able to physically sense their muscles in a deeper 
way.   Dance teachers take the training of these young bodies very 
seriously.  Injury prevention is a key component in this training.  If your 
child comes home and talks about being a little sore, remind them that their 
bodies are in the process of being “tuned.”

“Mom, Dad...I don’t think the dance teachers like me! It seems like they are 
ALWAYS correcting me.”

All students need frequent reminders from their teachers as they learn to 
control their bodies.  Dance teachers use corrections as a way to help the 
student refine their skills throughout the year.  Corrections should never 
be taken in a negative or personal way.  If a teacher should say, “Rita, 
straighten your leg and extend your foot when you do a tendu to the side.”  
This doesn’t mean that the teacher doesn’t like Rita or her leg or foot it 
just means that the teacher is showing Rita a way to strengthen her legs and 
to achieve the proper form.   A dance teacher giving corrections to a dancer 
is like a gardener giving water to a plant. The dancer needs corrections and 
the plant needs water in order to grow and thrive.

After being exposed to new skills through- out the year, students enter a 
practice phase in which they learn to self-correct their skills.  They also 
learn to observe their peers and give positive feedback in the form of 
compliments and “stretches”, or goals to achieve.  Students often learn 
better from each other than from us!

Dance Legends

George Balanchine (January 22, 1904 –April 30, 1983) was a Russian ballet 
choreographer.  Balanchine is one of the 20th century's foremost 
choreographers, and one of the founders of American ballet. The dance 
company he founded is called the New York City Ballet Company. His work 
formed a bridge between classical and modern ballet.  
Dance Word of the Week:
Gesture - a motion made with some part of the body, especially the hands or 
arms, to show some idea or feeling
Dance History Fact:  
During the Romantic Ballet period (the 19th century), gas lights were used 
to illuminate the stage, giving the stage space an eerie, other worldly 
atmosphere. During this time there was no such thing as flame retardant 
materials, so unfortunately several ballerinas’ tutus caught on fire as they 
danced close to the gas lights and they were badly injured.
Oct.29 – Nov.2: Parent Visitation Week
                            Parents are cordially invited to come and watch 
their child’s classes on the day of attendance from 8:30 until 10:45 AM.  
Unfortunately, we do not have space in the cafeteria for parents to stay for 
lunch.
November 2   - 
End of First Grading Period
November 5th - 6th – Staff Day - Parent conferences as needed.

Found:  a pair of lavender glasses in the large dance studio.
Please contact ODC if your child has lost his/her glasses   - 473-5043









“Dance Matter’s” - A Weekly Newsletter for our ODC Dance community - Number 4
Oct.1-Oct.5

Meet Mrs. Wright

Mrs. Wright has actually lived two different “lives” so far – and very 
different ones at that. She moved to New York City right after graduation 
from college and was soon invited to join the Erick Hawkins Dance Company. 
After touring the U.S., Europe & Asia for 11 years, she moved to Virginia 
Beach where she joined the ODC dance faculty and started a family. Here are 
some of the similarities and differences between these occupations:
 
New York City	
I lived in a tiny apartment with one cat, a few plants and a fire escape 
where I could sit outside.
I could walk to work or take the subway where ever I wanted to go. I didn’t 
even own a car!
We would have to be at the theater at about 1:00 for and 8:00 show. When we 
weren’t traveling, rehearsals didn’t start until 9:00 PM! I stayed up very 
late at night and sometimes didn’t eat dinner until 2:00 AM.
I met many new friends and students teaching classes in the places we 
performed.
I didn’t have much time to do anything except dance and read, although I did 
get to see many dance concerts.

I got to travel to all kinds of exotic places.
 
Virginia Beach
I live in a nice house with two dogs, a cat, lots of plants, a son and have 
a huge backyard where I can sit outside!
I have to drive to work and any place else I want to go. I did take the 
train to Washington D.C. once.
I get up early because ODC classes start at 8:05 AM; I’m a sleepy-head by 
9:00 PM now.



I meet many new students every year at ODC.

I have time to enjoy my friends, swim, play tennis, canoe, and garden and I 
still get to see some good dance concerts here.
I mostly only travel to see family and friends in the U.S. – although I did 
get to go to the Arctic Ocean this summer with my Dad!
      				Next Week -    Meet - Mrs. Spear-Jones

The Balancing Act between Two Schools

Balancing the work load between two schools can be quite a challenge for our 
dancers, however there are some things that we have found that could be 
helpful in trying to support your child.  Here are some questions worth 
paying attention to early in the first grading period that aids in keeping 
your child on track

Is your child receiving missed work and homework from his/her home school? 
An important way to help your child be successful in his/her home school is 
to make sure your child has a clear plan to get missed work and assignments 
from all teachers   -- and that the plan is working.  Your child should know 
when and where to get their make-up work and homework assignments as well as 
when the work is due.  If the plan to receive assignments from home school 
teachers is not working, we hope you can be an advocate for your child to 
help encourage teachers to develop a new, more workable plan

Is your child organizing time well in order to complete necessary work?
If your child is not following through on completing work, help him/her come 
up with a reasonable schedule to head towards success.

Is your child being marked absent from their classes?
Your child is in school on his/her dance education and is not to be marked 
absent.  Talk to the office staff or principal to clear up this issue if it 
should happen.

Is your child expected to stay at his/her home school for testing?
Except for standardized test like SAT 10 and SOL, tests should be 
rescheduled for a different day.

Remember that there are many resources in place at the home school to 
support your child.  There are the Gifted Resource Teachers (GRT’s) in each 
school who have been very helpful to our dance students.  There are 
counselors at all home schools and here at ODC, who can help devise 
strategies for success.  In addition, we think you will find that the 
teachers will work closely with students who show consistent effort towards 
their own academic success.  
Please contact us if your child is facing difficulties so we can help.  We 
also love to hear success stories from our many students who find they are 
able to keep their grades the same or higher than the previous year.  
This is one balancing act that will not fall down.

Definition:  
Home School =The school your child attends when not attending ODC for dance.


Parents Information Corner
Thanks so much for returning all the forms so promptly.  We have a few 
remaining forms to be received.  Also make sure to e-mail Mrs. Spear-Jones 
that you have received the beginning of the year information.

SPECIAL NOTE to the Parents of the 8th Grade dance students
The dance department will be taking a field trip during the week of Oct. 22 –
 Oct.26.  The 8th grade dance students, along with the 8th grade art 
students will be touring Salem Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts.  
We have sent home field trip permission forms for you to sign.  If you have 
an 8th grade dance student and have not signed or seen this form, please 
check with your child to make sure the form is not buried in the bottom of 
his/her dance bag.

Parent Packets 
Please sign the line that corresponds with the week printed at the top of 
the newsletter.  If your child has missed a week due to illness, we will 
then know to give them the information they missed.  Also, please don’t sign 
ahead. 

Lunch Money
If you would like your child to have money in a lunch account, it needs to 
be put into a separate account here at ODC.  We are not able to access money 
in an account at your child’s home school.  Please make sure your child has 
the money they need for lunch.  Students who have free or reduced lunch at 
their home school do receive the same here.

Homework Buddies
We do give a small amount of homework each week to keep the children 
thinking about their dance education classes.  Most assignments should take 
only 15-20 minutes to complete.  There are several ways to find the 
assignment if a child has misplaced the instructions or was absent. In 
building our sense of community, each child has chosen two “homework 
buddies”, one from his/her home school and one that goes to another school.  
Both buddies are on your child’s team.  They have exchanged names and phone 
numbers.  So if your child is either confused or was absent, the ways to 
retrieve the homework assignment is either by calling their “buddies” or by 
checking in on the Teacher web site.  

Word of the Week:  
Expression:  a way of dancing that gives it real meaning or feeling

Dance Legend: 
Erick Hawkins (April 23, 1909 - November 23, 1994) was an American dancer 
and choreographer.   In 1951 Hawkins, interested in the new field of 
kinesiology, opened his own school and developed his own technique ('Hawkins 
Technique'). His known style is a strong and commanding one and he believed 
that movement could be beautiful and enjoyable for its own sake. His 
movement choices are not bound but very free and flowing creating certain 
aesthetics only found in Hawkins Technique. The movement is also very 
organic and natural, building on Erick's belief of letting the movement take 
the body through three dimensional spaces. This style of Modern Dance is 
taught in the ODC Dance Education program

Dance History Fact: 
The Romantic period in ballet occurred in the early to mid 1800s, and 
roughly corresponds to Romanticism movements in art and literature. Like 
these movements, 'Romantic ballet's focused on the conflict between man and 
nature, society and the supernatural.

Calendar:   Coming up
Oct.29 – Nov.2: Parent Visitation Week
Parents are cordially invited to come and watch their child’s classes on the 
day of attendance form 8:30 until 10:45 AM.  Unfortunately, we do not have 
space in the cafeteria for parents to stay for lunch.

Dance Video Resource:  The dance students are starting to watch the 
ballet “Giselle” as part of their dance history unit.  Students want to know 
where they can get this and other dance videos.  The public library and 
video stores have some dance videos but one of the best places is 
www.dancehorizon.com.  This site has a wide selection of wonderful dance 
videos.

And now, for the moment you have been waiting for   - The answers to Mrs. 
B.’s quiz from last week.

There was only 1 false!  She does not like to watch team sports.  EVERYTHING 
else is true!  What an amazing woman.  She can do almost anything!  That’s a 
big WOW!







News Online - “Dance Matters” Number 3 - Sept. 24 – 28

Meet Dance faculty member Karen Buchheim

Mrs. “B” has been teaching dance at ODC since 1986. She loves dance and 
working with kids of all ages (even grown up kids!). One thing she really 
enjoys is solving puzzles. Here is a puzzle about Mrs. B for you to try and 
solve.
	
Who can figure out which of the following statements are true and which are 
false?
1-She was born and grew up in St. Louis, Missouri.
2-She married a Naval flight Officer and has lived in many different areas 
of    the U.S.A.
3-She enjoys musical theater.
4-She has 2 dogs, a Boxer named Titan and a Beagle named Daisy.
5-She likes to knit and explores lots of other creative hand work and crafts.
6-She has a private pilot’s license.
7-She loves to learn new things and reads for knowledge and for pleasure.
8-She loves to watch team sports of all types.
9-She has a son in the U.S. Marine Corps.
10-Her daughter is married to a Navy man.
11-She has created a symbol language for Tap Dance called Tappinese™.
12-She is a Registered Nurse.
13- She is working on a patent for new and original dance software.
14-She has 3 grandchildren.
15-Her husband builds and flies remote control model airplanes.
16- She loves working at ODC with the other dance faculty!


Team Placement Information
The dance students have now been placed on teams which group students who 
have a range of similar abilities.  These teams include students of 
different ages.  Some students may have experience with one form of dance, 
but less with another.  In these cases we look for the best overall 
placement for learning in all three strands (Technique Strand, Perspectives 
Strand and Creative Strand) of the Dance Education Program curriculum.  The 
dance faculty has been observing the dance students’ skills for two week and 
will continue to observe and assess all students to make sure they are 
placed where they can make the best progress.

Our goal for dancers in the ODC Dance Education Program technique classes is 
to focus on strengthening fundamental skills and understanding these 
foundations.  Dance Perspectives and Creative Dance classes add to the 
dancer’s knowledge of the details, complexity of dance. These studies can 
always be applied to any other movement experiences being pursued by the 
student.

We encourage our students not to dwell on what “level” they are in.  Each 
student receives personal instruction in each class to challenge him/her to 
develop necessary skills such as proper alignment, muscle development and 
sequencing.  We know that all of our students will progress beautifully 
during this unit.  Ask them to show you some of their new skills


Dance Bags - Cost  $10.00   Our 3rd year in a row to offer these nifty dance 
bags  - This year they are red with yellow lettering  - holds all your dance 
supplies   - 
Modeled by  -Meredith Savage - 8th grader Kemps Landing Middle School
Jordan Frankos - 3rd grader  - Linkhorn Park Elementary School
Will take cash or checks  -Make checks out to Old Donation Center.

Dance Department Needs
Kleenex and hair supplies especially thin hair nets  

Word of the Week –Alignment - in a straight line  - As used in a dance 
class, head, torso and hips arranged in a centered way that allows for 
maximum efficiency in movement.

Dance Legend  -Agrippina Yakovlevna Vaganova (July 6, 1879 - November 5, 
1951) was an outstanding Russian ballet teacher who developed the Vaganova 
method - the technique which derived from the teaching methods of the old 
Imperial Ballet School (today the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet) under 
the Maître de Ballet Marius Petipa throughout the mid to late 19th century, 
though mostly throughout the 1880s and 1890s. It was Vaganova who perfected 
and cultivated this form of teaching the art of classical ballet into a 
syllabus of the utmost wisdom. Her Fundamentals of the Classical Dance 
(1934) remains a standard textbook for the instruction of ballet technique.  
Her style of ballet is the style taught in the Old Donation Dance Education 
Program. 

Dance History Trivia:  A ballet tutu is a skirt worn as a costume in a 
ballet performance, often with attached bodice. It might be single layer, 
hanging down, or multiple layers starched and strutting out.  The tutu was 
first introduced during the Romantic Period of Ballet -  early1800- early 
1900.

Parents  Reminder- 
Please remember to e-mail Gwen Spear-Jones that you       received the 
beginning of the year information.  Also make sure you have given your child 
any signed forms that need to be turned into the dance teachers.

Dance Calendar :  
Oct. 29 – November 2 -   Parent visitation (more information to follow at a 
later date).
November 2   - End of First Grading Period.
November 5th - 6th – Staff Day -  Parent conferences as needed.




From the ODC Dance Newsletter  “DANCE MATTERS”  - (Newsletter 2)  9/17-21

Meet the dance faculty: Valerie Annette Winborne
Teacher/dance therapist/healer/Mommy/tea drinker
What kind of dance class will you teach?
Great question. I will teach a technique class that incorporates the very 
important basics for any technique. I will do it through modern dance 
movement integrated with West African Dance, Jazz and Hip Hop.
What’s a dance therapist? Well, A dance therapist is a person who uses 
movement and gesture to help the mind and body function at its best. For 
example, if you are feeling sad, you might slump down and allow your body to 
slouch, you might hang your head low and not want to do much of anything….a 
dance therapist would try to help, even heal you through non verbal work to 
change your body and the sad feelings…. kind of like a counselor or 
psychologist except they work to make you feel better by talking.
Do you have a family? How many children do you have? 
Oh Yes, I have 2 girls. They have long names…..Ming Elaine Winborne Woodson 
who is 2 years old and Ryleigh Elise Winborne Woodson who is 10 weeks old. I 
have a husband…Roman….he’s tall and wears glasses. I have brothers and 
sisters, My Mom and a cat that looks like a miniature Ocelot…her name is 
Angel the Cat and she can fetch like a dog.
Why do you like to dance?
Well, its not just that I like dance, I love dance...I love to move, I love 
responding to music and I love seeing other people move. For me movement is 
dance and dance is choreography, so when you walk and you do it consciously 
its dance when you move and make it specific, its choreography. That is 
truly what makes life interesting for me.
You said you are a tea drinker…why mention that?
Well tea is not just a drink for me…it’s a little luxury I try to give 
myself daily. to slowly sip a tasty, flavorful drink and think peaceful 
thoughts…well is like a mini vacation...a little luxury. Its makes the whole 
day nicer. I drink tea but I also collect tea pots and love the art of tea. 
There are actual tea ceremonies that you have to learn to participate in, 
it’s a lot more than just drinking.
—Continued on page 2
Valerie Annette Winborne, from page 1
Do you have any favorite things?
Oh yes, Ice Cream…right now my favorite flavor is Sticky Toffee Pudding by 
Haagen Daz.
My favorite snack: Olives, Goat Cheese and Cherry Tomatoes on Cracked Black 
Pepper crackers…. oh and if you can get a bit of smoked trout it’s a taste 
sensation!
My favorite TV show is on the food network, I love the Food Network.
I love smiling faces especially yours right at this moment.
If I was supposed to do a really hard dance step and I could not get it, 
would you be upset?
NEVER…There are so many steps I could never do the way some other people did 
when I took class and it made me feel like an awful dancer, but when I 
learned to try to do things the best I could and to challenge myself to do 
the steps better than I thought, I found that I got lots of compliments and 
stickers. I found out it was not about looking like someone else but being 
my absolute best and trying real hard…Sooooooooooooooo, what to answer your 
question, I would never get upset if you can’t get the step because what’s 
really important is that you try your best.
Is there anything else you’d like to say to end this interview?
See you in class!


Dance Legends

Fanny Elssler 1810 - 1884), born Franziska Elssler, was an Austrian dancer 
who introduced theatricalized folk dance (character dance) into ballet. She 
was celebrated for her spirited, spectacular dancing and for her technique, 
especially her point work.

Parent Information
Please make sure to sign your child’s forms.  Be  sure to check  the front 
and back of the different papers. We appreciate your help with this.  We 
also appreciate you e-mailing Mrs. Spear-Jones that you received the 
beginning of the year  dance information.
As part of their homework, the students are organizing their dance 
notebooks.  Their dividers should be labeled this way—   1)  Ballet  2)  
Dance Perspectives  3)  2nd Technique class    4)) Creative Dance. 
Most divider packs come with 5 or 6 dividers, so the 5th and 6th divider can 
be the student’s choice  -example: dance homework  or dance vocabulary.  
The younger students might need help with this , so you might want to check 
in with them.

Dance Calendar :  
Oct. 29 – November 2 -   Parent visitation (more information to follow at a 
later date).
November 2   - End of First Grading Period.
November 5th - 6th – Staff Day  -  Parent conferences as needed.

Parent/Teacher communication: 
1) MYSCHOOL mail
2) ODC phone number 473-5043
3) Faculty e-mail addresses
Karen Buchheim  - karen.buchheim@vbschools.com
Gwen Spear-Jones – gwen.spear-jones@vbschools.com
Valerie Winborne  - valerie.winborne@vbschools.com
Laura Wright  - laura.wright@vbschools.com
4) TeacherWeb(www.teacherweb.com/VA/Old Donationcenter/MrsWright/).

Dance Word of the Week:
Shape —  a three –dimensional design made with the body in space  - curved, 
angular, straight or twisted
Dance History Trivia:  
The terms upstage and downstage came from the 18th century , when the stage 
floor were slanted, or raked, upward away from the audience.  The  stage 
neared the audience was lower than the back of the stage  space.



From "Dance Matters"  -   Sept.10 - Sept.14
Welcome to the first edition of the 2007-2008 ODC Dance newsletter –the 
newsletter that keeps you informed.  Look for future editions covering 
important information like dance  calendar reminders, highlights of what 
your child is studying, dance program information, contact numbers, 
faculty/students profiles, dance performance information and dance history 
trivia! We hope you find this newsletter useful and informative.   We want 
all the members of our dance family to learn about the many facets of dance 
education and will do our best to communicate with you.

Meet the dance faculty: 
The ODC Dance Faculty from left to right:   
Valerie Winborne, Karen Buchheim, Laura Wright and Gwen Spear-Jones
ODU Teacher Intern , Sharon Glass is in the middle.  
In partnership with Old Dominion University, this is the 5th dance education 
teacher intern we have had in our dance program. 
Stephanie Glass is a student teacher from Old Dominion University.  She is a 
senior aspiring to graduate with a BA in Dance Education.  Stephanie comes 
from a long ballet background including attending schools such as the 
Washington Ballet, the Rock School and the Virginia School of the Arts.  She 
has been teaching for 7 years and hopes to open her own school in the future.

Next week: Feature story on Valerie Winborne  -  She reveal why tea and ice 
cream are important to her. 
 
Beginning of the year information for Parents

1)Weekly packet:  Please read the information each week in “Dance Matters”, 
the ODC Dance Education weekly newsletter.  Please sign the weekly packet 
each week so we know that you have received your newsletter and any other 
information that might be in your packet.   Please do not sign “ahead“  as 
this can be confusing for us to know what you have already received.  Do not 
seal the weekly packet

2)Dress Code:   We are very particular about the dress code outlined on the 
supply list.  This allows the teachers to more easily see body alignment and 
muscle use to properly train the students.  Give us a call if you need 
guidance in purchasing dance clothes; we do have boys tights for sale here 
at ODC (children’s sizes are $8.10; adult sizes are $10.15).  We also ask 
the girls to put their hair into a secure bun.  If it is too short, hair 
needs to be pinned securely away from the face and neck.

3) Attendance:  Regular attendance is necessary to insure maximum benefit 
from the dance education program.  Dance education is offered by our public 
school system because it can be a powerful enhancement to overall learning.  
It should be treated as an important part of your student’s educational 
experience.

 4)Return Forms  - In this week’s packet you will find many forms that need 
to be filled out, signed and returned next week.  Please check both sides of 
these papers.  We appreciate the time it takes to fill out this number of 
forms and to go over the information with your child.  


5) Homework: Students will be given brief homework assignments weekly.  
These assignments will also be posted on the TeacherWeb
(www.teacherweb.com/VA/Old Donationcenter/MrsWright/).


Dance Calendar :  
September 10:   First day for ODC Dance students
Oct. 29 – November 2 -   Parent visitation (more information to follow at a 
later date)
November 2   - End of First Grading Period
November 5th - 6th – Staff Day  -  Parent conferences as needed
Looking Ahead  - ODC Dance Performance  - April 20  at Plaza Middle School

Dance Word of the Week:  
Relationship -How dancers move in connection with someone or something - ex. 
over, under, beside, between, around, through 

Dance History Trivia:  
1800 – 1910 was an important time period in dance history called 
the “Romantic Era.  Point shoes for women were introduced during this time 
period.

Parent/Teacher communication: 
1) MYSCHOOL mail

2) ODC phone number 473-5043

3) Faculty e-mail addresses
Karen Buchheim  - karen.buchheim@vbschools.com
Gwen Spear-Jones – gwen.spear-jones@vbschools.com
Valerie Winborne  - valerie.winborne@vbschools.com
Laura Wright  - laura.wright@vbschools.com

4) TeacherWeb(www.teacherweb.com/VA/Old Donationcenter/MrsWright/).

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