On Friday, May 17th, at 2:30, the 8th grade students will be competing in the ninth annual 8th Grade Dance Contest. Over the years, this dance contest has become a highlight of the school year. The students in Mr. DePerry’s PE classes are taking part in a 3 week dance unit, practicing and performing dances to country and modern music. The 8th graders are divided into groups of 6 or 7 and asked to find music and put together a 90 second dance routine. Over the course of the dance unit, they must collaboratively design, practice, and master their dance routines. The culmination is 14 dance groups performing on stage in front of the student body and a panel of judges. Parents are welcome to attend. You will be amazed!!  Older siblings and friends are asked not to come to see the show. The gym space is full with the 3rd through 7th grade students and the parents of the 8th grade dance participants.  Next year with 3rd grade at Lower we will have space for additional guests.

As in the years past, parents have helped donate prizes for the dance contest. Once again, I am reaching out to the parents to help with the prizes for this very fun event. We need 7 prizes for each place. First-place prizes are $20.00 gift cards to Southdale AMC Movie Theater; second place prizes are $15.00 gift cards to Target; and third-place prizes are $10.00 gift cards to Dunn Brothers. You may drop those off in my office or the main office. The 8th graders are looking forward to this contest, and they have some great dance routines in development. If you would like to help with the dance prizes or need information on the dance contest, please contact Mr. DePerry. This is a great tradition! Thanks, and let the dancing begin!!