By Abigail Chai, Center Spread Editor
Each year, students can select from a wide range of offered electives to fulfill their visual and performing arts (VAPA) credits, with choices such as media arts, drama, and ceramics being a popular choice. However, this year there’s a new addition to the list. As for the first time in Mills history, students will have the chance to partake in a year-long dance class.
With two levels of dance being offered- intermediate and beginner- students of any expertise and grade are able to participate under the guidance of brand-new teacher, Jessica Himes. Intensely dancing since she was just 12 years old, Ms. Himes early-on became immersed with the art of improv and choreography, a passion which only grew as she entered college. After leading a dance class to a few of her peers at 19 and finding inspiration from college professors, Himes “fell in love with choreography” which then “translated into teaching others.”
Coming to this realization, she decided to pursue a career in dance education, embarking on the journey to earn her teaching credentials at California State University, East Bay. She had her first brush with highschool education at the San Mateo High School dance program, describing the experience as “baptism by fire”, being that she was the sole substitute of the program for the first semester despite just being a student-teacher herself. However, her time at San Mateo allowed her to grow her skills as an educator and tackle the many difficulties that come with teaching dance.
A physical form of expression and creativity, dance is an intimidating task for many. With beginner students often struggling with learning techniques and the prospects of performing in front of an audience, Ms. Himes helps create an environment where students can find confidence within their abilities whilst developing a passion for dance. “I try to find a way for students to see themselves personally in a dance class,” she shared. “It’s just like finding ways that each student can realize how important and amazing dance is.” Some of her methods include creating class playlists, connecting students’ heritage to cultural dances, and more; ceaselessly striving to engage students on the dance floor.
Yet, in spite of the dauntingness of beginning dance with little to no knowledge, the class has drawn numerous individuals with a curiosity for the form of art. Senior Matthew Situ (12), one of the several students trying dance this year, joined the course excited to end his highschool career on a high note. “Taking a dance class with my friends seemed like the perfect way to have fun,” he expressed. With many other students sharing a similar sentiment, it creates for a lively and immersed environment when paired with Ms. Himes engaging teaching methods.
While just a few weeks into the school year, Ms. Himes and her two dance classes have a lot to look forward to in the coming months. Throughout the year, beginner-level students will learn basic techniques, whilst also developing the knowledge to support both themselves and their peers. Moreover, the intermediate class will perform in various school events and even have the chance to choreograph their own potential routines for the upcoming Spring performance; an event for both classes to display their expanded skills to parents, faculty, and friends.
Photo by Nika Eskandarian
