SEL Awardee

Sarah Colella

Conley Elementary School
Boston Public Schools
Roslindale. MA
“My project idea is to bring three local dance companies to Conley to teach students different styles of dance and the culture and history of specific dance forms. This project will provide opportunities for students to make connections to their own cultural identities and the cultures of others. Students will also have the opportunity to express themselves, communicate feelings, connect with others and build stronger relationships through movement and dance in a safe, nonthreatening, noncompetitive atmosphere. Another goal of this project is to improve students' overall mental and physical health by increasing the amount of physical activity by providing ongoing movement and dance. Ultimately, we hope to create a more inclusive school community through shared experiences of practicing different forms and styles of dance. And hopefully this project will ignite curiosity and appreciation for diverse styles of movement and dance for all members of our school community.”
Tags: Collaborative Learning, Community Engagement, Culturally Responsive Approaches, Elementary School, ELs, Mindfulness, New Arrivals, Racial, Gender and/or Social Justice, Students with Disabilities, Teacher, Traditional Public School, Urban, Use of Space