The North Vancouver School District recognizes dance as an integral part of the K-12 curriculum.  

Dance is vitality. There is something extraordinary about dancing and its ability to make us feel alive. Throughout history, dance has served as an expression of our human development, allowing us to communicate in ways that words alone cannot.  

Through dance, students learn important lessons that help them in all areas of their lives, including social skills, self-confidence, emotional and kinaesthetic awareness, and physical, emotional and spiritual well-being,  

Dance is knowledge. We enrich our lives through creative expression and build new ideas through embodied practice.  

Through dance, students gain a better understanding of self. They develop focus, resilience and healthy ways of self-expression through physical movement.  

Dance is connection. Dance helps students build positive relationships as they come together in a shared experience. We deepen our understanding of one another through teamwork, communication, and collaboration. Dance connects us to each other in a profound and meaningful way. 

Dance is inclusive. Dance is a creative outlet for students to express themselves in a safe and inclusive environment. Students are taught to recognize the strengths that each person brings to the classroom and are encouraged to appreciate the unique differences in each other.  

Dance takes on many forms, meanings, traditions, aesthetics and attitudes. The North Vancouver School District believes all students should explore a variety of dance genres to gain a better understanding of diverse perspectives. We have much to share and learn from one another—dance builds stronger learning communities.