As Halloween came to South Side High School for another year, this time a sense of thrill came along with it.
The High School’s new International Baccalaureate dancers took to the halls to show off their “Thriller” dance moves inspired by Michael Jackson’s song of the same title. Along with the CORE, Pathways,’ and Best Buddies students, the IB dancers celebrated the inclusion, creativity and school spirit of South Side.
The IB dance students pushed into these Special Classes to share the Halloween spirit and collaborate their moves with their peers. “This past week has been an absolute blast,” Christina Ferrara-Muter, Special Education Teacher and IB Dance Teacher said. “The rooms were filled with so much joy as students from different programs came together to dance. Watching everyone move, smile and have fun was pure magic. So many teachers were blown away by the performance. They did a great job, but more importantly, had so much fun.”
Several students expressed the fun they experienced from the IB dance students engagement. “My favorite part about Thriller is dancing with my friends,” Bryce Keitt, 10th grade student said. I liked learning from the dance girls. It was a nice feeling because they walked us through the steps and they were very patient. I’m proud of getting the hang of the steps.”
As the program is fresh in South Side, students like Peyton Moss, 11th grader, get to experience a class unlike any other at the school. “Learning Thriller in IB Dance has been such a fun experience because it lets us develop new skills and challenge ourselves with new choreography,” she said. “Working closely with students who have special needs has made the process even more meaningful, as we work together, support each other and celebrate each step along the way. I’ve learned how important encouragement and creativity are in helping everyone feel confident while performing. We’re all excited to perform and show how dance can bring people together in such an energetic and memorable way.”
The IB Dance classes were introduced to students this year, open to juniors and seniors. With no dance experience required, this allows for all students to have an opportunity to experience their love for dance through performing art and cultural practice. “They learn to create original movement, perform with intention, and write thoughtfully about dance as an art form and a form of cultural expression,” Ferrara-Muter said. “The course takes a holistic approach, emphasizing the relationship between body, mind, and creativity.”
More than just a dance class, this program offers students a form of communication for their emotions, ideas and social themes. “Through research, practice, and reflection, IB Dance fosters discipline, collaboration, and cultural awareness,” she said. “It prepares students not only for further study in the arts but also for any field that values creativity, communication, and global understanding.”
