The recent performances of Mateo Motion and Knight Moves that showcased the extensive dance programs of both San Mateo and Hillsdale revealed Aragon’s lacking dance program. Although we have extracurricular dance teams, such as hip hop and K-pop, the teams practice independently of the school and only represent two types of dance. Other dance forms that are less “pop culture” like contemporary, jazz and ballet are sadly underrepresented at Aragon despite our other well-developed facets of performing arts.
There are many reasons why a dance class would be beneficial for Aragon. Aragon already has a substantial performing arts program with a well-respected drama program and music program.
Many of those in drama also take dance outside of school and already have enough previous experience to give the dance program a good head start. Dance would be a great way to augment our current performing arts program and give Aragon a performing arts trifecta. With competition from both San Mateo’s and Hillsdale’s extensive dance programs, this is a perfect time for Aragon to introduce our own. Although there are already two substianal dance programs in the area, I believe that Aragon could offer a more vibrant and diverse selection for perfoming arts audiences. A year-end performance would make great use of the new theater and raise money.
Similar to the new yoga class, a new dance program would provide an alternate way for students to get exercise. Running and “regular” sports are not necessarily suited towards everyone, and dance provides equally aerobic fitness. Rather than forcing everyone into one type of fitness, expanding Aragon’s choices would only benefit the student body.
According to principal Patricia Kurtz, the two main reasons that Aragon hasn’t started a dance team are a lack of interest and the need for an on-campus accredited teacher. Aragon has listened to previous student suggestions such as Intro to Computer Science and Creative Writing and Speech, but no one has come forward with a desire for implementing a dance program. The district also requires teachers to possess certain credentials, which no teacher at Aragon currently has. If enough interest were shown, Kurtz said that getting a teacher specifically for dance could be feasible, as funding is not an issue.
Why no one has come forward with a petition to start up a dance program is unclear. Maybe people are unaware that they can ask, and they don’t realize it’s an option. Or they don’t see the benefits. It’s a great addition to our current performing arts program, adds to the number of electives Aragon offers, and widens the scope of our abilities and accomplishments as a school. The only thing holding us back is a student body that seems uninterested in pushing for an official dance program. The bottom line is: if you want to see a dance class here at Aragon, all you have to do is ask.
