Hello everyone! My name Is Emily Box, and I am the dance teacher as well as the dance director of the Emerald Stars Dancers here at Mountain Valley Middle School. I have been dancing for over 20 years and majority of that was during my upbringing right here In Comal County. I am a proud Smithson Valley High School alumni (Go Rangers!) who switched out her navy and white for green and gold to be a part of Hawk Nation In 2022.
I graduated from Texas State University with a bachelors In Exercise In Sports Science, and had the amazing opportunity to Intern In cardiac rehabilitation where I truly fell more In love with education and health. I have always been intrigued in how our body's work and how to maintain them to live long healthy lives. I am a certified teacher In dance, health, and physical education. It Is my mission to educate my students on how to properly care for their body both physically and mentally all while Incorporating and appreciating the beautiful art of dance.
I hope to encourage my students to find their passions and hobbies as this Is the perfect time to find out what you love to do!
~ Ms. B
FAQ:
Yes! Dance class counts as a fine arts and PE credit. Lots of students still join athletics while being Involved In dance.
Everyone must start in Dance 1 and complete the class credit before moving to Dance 2 the following year.
You must audition for the dance team In order to join and be added the to Dance team class (1st period) for the following school year. You do not need to be In my dance class to be eligible for tryouts - but It can be beneficial, but does not have an automatic advantage to auditions.
Tryouts will be a week long In the month of March (dates not confirmed). Day 1 you will learn the routine, day 2 and 3 will be reviewing and practicing the dance and Its technique, day 4 Is mock tryouts, day 5 are official tryouts In front of a panel of judges, me being one of them.
How can I prepare myself for tryouts?
It Is never too early to prepare! Skills the team mainly focuses on are double pirouettes, stationary leaps, grande jete's, calypso's, and battements. Acro/gymnastics is not required but can be helpful with learning and Improving skills, and can be incorporated in routines throughout the year. Flexibility, strength, stamina, and performance quality and dedication are all very important to have. Taking classes outside of school at dance studios are extremely beneficial.