Moving To Learn

Moving To Learn provides Santa Barbara elementary school students with critical developmental dance instruction that supports their academic achievement, increases their cognitive skills and provides a base for lifelong learning in the arts that will assist them in becoming well-rounded, culturally aware citizens. In its ultimate form, MTL will be delivered in three tiers:

  • Tier 1: In-class instruction based on the National and California Dance Standards for public schools
  • Tier 2: After-school instruction for students who are interested in learning a more technical side to dance
  • Tier 3: Exposure to professional performances by AD&M Performance Group that deepen the experience of the Tier 1 and 2 instruction

Currently, we have implemented Tiers 1 and 3 and are searching for a space that would accomodate Tier 2. In 2010/2011, we reached approximately 600 children with Tier 1 instruction and over 1400 children with the Tier 3 performance of Wisperfal by AD&M Performance Group in residence at the Lobero Theatre.

In-School Residencies
Our Tier 1 in-school residencies are based on National Dance Standards as developed by the Consortium of National Arts Education Association and as accepted by the State of California. We are currently holding residencies in three elementary schools in the Santa Barbara Unified School District. Find Out More...

In-School Performances
AD&M Performance Group, our professional contemporary dance company, provides Tier 3 in-school performances of works that are at once artistically challenging and ideal for school children from elementary and up. Our latest works are Wisperfal and Haringduet, as performed in residency at the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara. Find Out More...

The Benefits of Art Based Dance Education
Although formal studies are just starting to be held, we have compiled a list of observations on the benefits of dance in education from educational researchers and school boards alike. Wherever possible, links to the original documents are given. Find Out More...

What People are Saying about MTL
Here are a few of the many positive comments that we have received from students and educators about the quality of the Moving To Learn residencies. Find Out More...

California Dance Standards
MTL Residencies are based on the National Dance Standards, developed by the Consortium of National Arts Education Associations (CNAEA) in 1994 and have been endorsed by the US Department of Education and by numerous professional organizations. California is one of the many states that have signed on to the NDS. Find Out More...