Academy of VPA

Begin in Dance I and move up sequentially each year; no initial audition or prior experience required. All dance courses require specific attire. Classes perform in the community in both Fall and Spring Semesters.

Dance I (7111): This course is an introduction to a variety of dance forms such as tap, ballet, jazz, modern, hip hop, folk/cultural. Students will study movement, vocabulary, and history of all forms.

Dance I - Accelerated (7117): This course is for students with two years of middle school dance experience. Otherwise, instructor permission needed for placement. Advanced Dance I moves at a quicker pace and a slightly more advanced level than Dance I.

Dance II (7121): This course builds upon the skills and concepts introduced in Dance I. Further emphasis is placed on creating and performance quality.

Dance III - IV (7131/7141): This course further extends skills and concepts introduced in Dance II with a focus on developing personal artistry and individual expression.

FOR THE HIGHLY MOTIVATED DANCER LOOKING TO FOCUS ON ONE DISCIPLINE:

In the VPA, our goal is not only to develop highly skilled dancers, but to ensure that every student leaves the dance program with a holistic dance education that fosters real-world skills and abilities. In these singularly focused courses, students will more fully dive into the artistic processes of creating, performing, responding, and connecting to deepen their understanding of dance as a whole, and enhance their personal artistry.

In the Jazz track, placement class is required for placement into level II or above (see "Placement Class" tab.) Email dance department for more information.

Modern/Contemporary I-IV (7181-7184)
Modern/Contemporary is a multi-level, year-long class blending classic modern dance technique with contemporary dance styles. Modern/Contemporary is an open level class. Instruction will be differentiated to support dancers of varying prior experience. No placement class required; prior dance experience preferred, but not required.

Jazz I (7114)
An introduction to the vocabulary, general principles, and movement of the dance form. Credit for this course does not automatically qualify the student for the next level as students often repeat levels. No placement class required for level I courses.

Jazz II (7124), Jazz III (7134), Jazz IV (7144)
These courses build upon the vocabulary, general principles and movement learned in level I (or outside studio classes.) They focus on developing and assessing the artistic growth of the advanced dancer, as well as exploring possible career pathways. Credit for these courses do not automatically qualify the student for the next level, as students often repeat levels. Dancers must attend placement class to be considered for these levels.

SunDancers (7154): Advanced Dance Performance Team

Students perform a variety of dance forms in a highly visible and competitive organization. Course involves extensive rehearsals and performances outside of the school day, and a double-blocked 1st/5th class period. Info meeting, clinic and auditions are held in November or December and are open to all 9th, 10th, and 11th graders.

Warrior Pride (7153): Ensemble Dance Performance Team

Students train in a variety of dance forms to perform at various school functions. Course involves some rehearsals and performances outside of school day, and a single-blocked 2nd class period. Info meeting, clinic, and auditions are held in April for all 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th graders.

FOR ATHLETES THAT NEED A FINE ARTS CREDIT

This course is for athletes who need a fine art credit and seek to deepen their physical understanding of their body and enhance their basic movement skills. Through yoga, pilates, and dance, athletes will increase their flexibility, coordination, balance, and agility. The focus of this class is to foster and grow basic movement skills which will aid athletes of any sport.