Lido Elementary fourth graders in Long Beach recently enjoyed an enriching experience through their participation in Dancing Classrooms Long Island, Social Ballroom program. Through this ten-week program twice weekly, students were introduced to the art of social ballroom dance while fostering essential life skills such as respect, collaboration, manners, self-esteem, and self-confidence.

Over the last few months, the students have worked diligently to learn a variety of ballroom dances, including the Merengue, Foxtrot, Rumba, Swing, Waltz, and Tango. Through Dancing Classrooms, students discover community, creativity, and collaboration skills that extend far beyond the dance floor. Their hard work and enthusiasm culminated in a joyful final showcase that happened in mid-January when parents and families were invited to celebrate and watch the students perform. Teachers were thrilled to join their students on this dancing journey, making the experience even more meaningful and memorable.

Dancing Classrooms is recognized as a collaborative and culturally rich art form found in communities around the world. These dances are traditionally practiced in duets or groups for social purposes such as celebrations, ceremonies, rituals, sport, exercise, or simply for fun. While social dances may be choreographed or performed for audiences, their primary purpose is connection. Improvisation plays an important role in their evolution and is encouraged once students learn the basic vocabulary. Above all, social dance thrives on live interaction. The Dancing Classrooms program left a lasting impression on students, staff, and families alike, celebrating not only dance, but also confidence, teamwork, and joy.