IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2009

CONTACT: K.E. Schwab
724.738.2199

karl.schwab@sru.edu

SRU dance department kicks off Saturday program for children         

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Slippery Rock University’s dance department will kick off an 11-week Saturday Dance Program for children ages 3–12 beginning Sept. 12.

           Classes will meet Sept. 12-Dec. 5 in the McKay Education Building Dance Studio. Classes will not meet Oct. 10 or Nov. 28.

            The creative dance classes will be divided by age and school grade. Children ages 3-4 will attend the 9:30-10 a.m. session, tuition is $50; those in kindergarten and first grade (ages 5-6) meet 10:15-11 a.m., tuition is $60; and tap, jazz and hip hop sessions will be offered those ages 7-12 from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., tuition is $70. Class sizes are limited, and early registration is urged.

            Dance is a necessary part of each child’s education. Studying dance allows children to learn many concepts, such as spatial awareness, cooperation, organization skills and problem-solving in a creative way, and promotes self-expression and communication, said Nora Ambrosio, SRU professor of dance and department chair.

            “Acquiring knowledge in this way provides children with the opportunity to learn to express themselves, therefore gaining higher self-esteem and self-confidence. Dance also provides an excellent physical experience for all participants and helps to increase strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. These concepts clearly make dance essential to children’s growing and learning processes,” she said.

            The SRU dance program is non-competitive and is the only creative movement classes in the area. While there will be an informal studio show for parents and friends at the end of the program, no costumes are required.

            The program’s focus is on teaching, exploring and learning.

            Parents interested in registering their child for the program should contact the SRU dance department at 724. 738.2036.

Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania’s premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives. -