Gratefulness/Happy Holidays From School Partnerships Coordinator
by Katie Brines
I started with Design Dance as School Partnerships Coordinator just over three weeks ago, after moving to Chicago from a small town in Northern Michigan. I moved to the city looking to find meaningful work in the arts and for more creative opportunities as a visual artist.
And so far, Design Dance has provided me with a place to land and the beginnings of a community. As I travel from school to school, I get to observe a talented group of teaching artists creating an environment for positive, incremental growth within a diverse set of school systems in the Chicago area. I see students communicating and connecting with one another in new and different ways. I see laughter, playfulness, tears, and sometimes frustration. Most importantly, I see an outlet and the simple, yet profound benefits of being up and moving during the school day.
I feel deeply thankful for self expression and super inspired by the creativity of both the students and the Design Dance teaching artists. So during this Holiday Season I want to give thanks for this new community.
Wishing you and your families Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from Design Dance!
Northside Catholic Academy Students in Ms. Laura's Storytime Ballet Show of their point skills!