Our goal is that every child, teen and adult has the right to an
inclusive and culturally responsive dance education.
- NYSDEA's Guide to Dance Advocacy
Advocacy efforts are crucial to meeting this goal.
Today, only 7% of children in the US have dance in their schools. While dance has proven benefits to the physical, mental and social/emotional health of people of all ages, access remains limited for older adults, boys and men, members of marginalized communities, people with disabilities and families with low incomes, among others.
Access alone is not enough. Once students are in the studio or classroom, are they truly welcome? Does the dance program provide the needed supports so that all students thrive?
Thoughtful, heartfelt, consistent and informed advocacy is a key to growing dance in education, increasing student supports and ensuring access! There are several ways to advocate for dance, starting with your own program and community and expanding to the state and national levels.
Today, only 7% of children in the US have dance in their schools. While dance has proven benefits to the physical, mental and social/emotional health of people of all ages, access remains limited for older adults, boys and men, members of marginalized communities, people with disabilities and families with low incomes, among others.
Access alone is not enough. Once students are in the studio or classroom, are they truly welcome? Does the dance program provide the needed supports so that all students thrive?
Thoughtful, heartfelt, consistent and informed advocacy is a key to growing dance in education, increasing student supports and ensuring access! There are several ways to advocate for dance, starting with your own program and community and expanding to the state and national levels.
Begin with your own teaching practice and your local community:
Tell people about what you do and the impact of dance on your own and your students’ lives. Celebrate the achievements of your students! You are very likely already implementing these ideas. Consider adding one new action that raises the profile of your work and supports your professional goals.
Tell people about what you do and the impact of dance on your own and your students’ lives. Celebrate the achievements of your students! You are very likely already implementing these ideas. Consider adding one new action that raises the profile of your work and supports your professional goals.
- Communicate regularly with families, with students and the community.
- Honor the dance heritage and customs of your community.
- Collect and share evidence on the value of dance education. Consider creating a newsletter or blog. Post on social media.
- Create visual representations and logos for your in-school program, studio or community dance space. Share widely and use them often.
- Learn who your local representatives are on your Town Council, School Board, Local Legislature, Mayor, etc. Share your successes and concerns. Invite them to events.
- Invite community members, families and local leaders to a variety of formal and informal performances and open classes.
- Venture out into the community and participate in local events; the opening of new community facilities and spaces, fundraisers, street fairs. Consider providing free classes or performance events.
- Participate in community leadership groups such as Parent Teacher Associations, Community Boards, Advisory Committees, Charitable event committees, Business Associations and School-based Leadership Committees.
Dance Education Resources
The following resources offer tools that can assist you in developing your dance curriculum!
National Core Arts Standards Website
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New York State Learning Standards for
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