Last May, I was a guest teacher for four modern dance workshops for an elementary school in Brooklyn, Williamsburg. Students, from 1st to 3rd grade, had taken Ballet with my colleague, Sonia, before my workshops. Sonia warned me that one or two boys might refuse to participate in the class. On the first day, as what I expected, the girls were more enthusiastic and attentive than the boys. One of the boys, Alex, just stood in the corner watching his classmates dance. The other boy, Jack, was constantly making noise, stepping out of his spot or calling out questions. I felt a little bit distracted, but I kept my calm and was focused on the fun part. After I taught them how to roll, fall, spin on the floor and jump with their hands, I eventually got all of their attention and interest. Boys and girls alike were all sweating and wearing a big smile on their faces. I knew they had a good time. Before I dismissed them, I reminded them that I will see them again the next day as well as following Monday and Tuesday. One of the girls called out, “I want to see you every day!” I instantly felt warmth in my heart.
Over the following two days, I taught them different movement qualities and the concept of dividing space into three levels: high, middle and low, so they can better explore the possibilities of moving through space. The boys definitely showed more enthusiasm than the first day. However, Jack still interrupted the class here and there. In the last day of the workshop, I reminded the class again that Ms. Sonia will come back on the following week to start choreographing for them. The class said goodbye to me; a few girls gave me hugs. Then, I packed my things while students were lining up to leave the room with their class teacher. The room became quiet. When I turned around, Jack was still there on the other side of the room. He was fussing around with his bag. I urged him to catch up with the group. But, he seemed to not want to leave. "I miss you!" Jack called out.
"(Awwww….) I miss you too," I responded. Jack didn’t say anything back. He just picked up his bag and left the room. I was so touched by this simple affection.
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