Coming into the dance program with all different levels, backgrounds, friend groups, and experiences the only thing that the IB Dance Class of 2026 had in common was a love for dance and a desire to learn more.
The IB dance program is unlike any other at Harrison High School because it allows for students to be in a class together for four years, spending time with the same core group of people every day. This creates the opportunity for dancers to connect on a deeper level, oftentimes with people they may not have otherwise known. Additionally, the program is demanding with unique assessments such as creating, teaching, and recording choreography which requires collaboration on a significant level to be successful.
Deborah Toteda, the teacher and mentor who started it all for these girls, shared, “I think what brings people together in an artistic environment is there’s a common goal and everybody wants to be able to put on a good show. So ultimately everyone is going to learn from each other, work together, and accept one another.”
As well as being an artistic setting where all students are working towards a common goal of the winter or spring concert, the IB Dance Program is unlike many other dance programs that take place at studios or outside venues, because it all happens during the school day. Instead of students being placed together based upon ability level or experience, students are grouped based on grade level and are able to start on an even playing field to work through the courses together. Everyone who enters the program receives the same basic technique and artistry training, and while of course there are varying levels of ability within the class, all students are equally encouraged to expand their skills. Samantha Rabin, a senior in the dance program shared, “In school it is easier to get closer with other dancers in the program compared to dancing at a studio because you’re seeing these kids every single day, they’re the same age as you, they share the same passion for dance as you, and you’re in other classes with them throughout the day.”
In addition to the location and time of the class being convenient for bonding, there is a spirit of curiosity and a desire to learn present within every student in the dance class. Ms. Toteda said, “When people like to learn, they want to get better. They want to learn something about themselves, they want to learn from other people, and they’re not afraid to learn from other people.” This unique ability to put aside any ego, any preconceived notions of what is normal has allowed these students to connect on a deeper level through the art of dance. Creating a space where judgement is scarce and encouragement is abundant has removed a lot of the fear from performing and helped shift focus from the goals of perfection to aiming for improvement and the continuation of progress.
At the conclusion of the seniors final spring concert they each received a rose commemorating their graduation, which doubled as a symbol of the beauty that they have created as a result of their hard work in the dance program. Ms. Toteda remarked, “These students in particular have grown so close over the past year. I think because they realize that what we have here is special, and it is hard to find anywhere else.”
As they go out into the world of college and the future of their education, they carry with them the memories and experiences they have gained from the IB Dance program and thank Ms. Toteda for her endless support.
