Recently had the opportunity to communicate with Jennifer Hinshaw, the dance teacher at Avon High School in Avon, Indiana. Jennifer told me that she believes that Avon is extremely privileged to have dance as a part of their curriculum. She feels that Avon offers more than a dance team. They offer a full course load of dance classes including: Dance I, through Dance IV, Advanced Technique, and Dance Company. All members of their JV and Varsity teams are required to take one of these classes. Their dancers are exposed to a variety of genres, not just the competitive styles. As a result, they are able to not only gain knowledge about the origin of their favorite styles but also prepare them to pick up details and qualities at a faster rate resulting in more well-rounded dancers. In addition, the dancers are required to partake in choreography projects, principals, and studies. Jennifer feels that this not only allows their dancers a better understanding of the dance elements but also gives them a deeper respect for their choreographers. In addition, she strongly encourages their dancers to take additional classes outside of school including studio technique classes, conventions, master classes, etc. <br /> To keep their dancers motivated, Jennifer reminds them that it isn’t about winning or losing but about constantly pushing themselves to do their absolute best. The important thing is that at the end of a performance they know that they had given everything that they had.
As their teacher, Jennifer is very proud of her dancers. Until recently, she would have said that her proudest moment was when they won state two years ago particularly because of how hard they pushed. However, her proudest moment changed recently when one of their “dance family” members experienced a great loss. She said that she has never been more proud of them until she saw how their “family” embraced that member. “They cried for her, sent her words of love and encouragement, and offered support in multiple ways. Although a very difficult time, it was heartwarming to see the love that is shared in their group.” That is definitely something worthy of her pride.
Jennifer said that one of the biggest mistakes she sees dancers make when competing is worrying too much about what the judges have to say. She often tells her dancers “it is just someone’s opinion.” When they work on choreography projects, they discuss the fact that you might not like what everyone choreographs and that’s okay. It is still art. You cannot control how someone else views your art. Your just have to do your very best, including working as hard as you need to get where you want.
When choosing good dance clothing, Jennifer looks for support, clean lines and coverage.
As far as goals for the team, she hopes to give the dancers a great product that challenges and excites them; work more team bonding into their schedule; and make sure that when it comes to practices, they focus on quality rather than quantity. She plans to not stress, but enjoy how blessed she is to work with such outstanding choreographers, coaches, and dancers!
By Cyndi Marziani
Owner Bailar Dancewear
