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High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Dance

Dance

MCPS Regional Dance programs provide students with a strong foundation in choreography and technique, along with specialized experiences across a variety of dance styles. Through rigorous training and authentic, real‑world dance experiences, students are prepared for postsecondary opportunities in the arts—whether pursuing a college degree or entering the arts workforce directly after high school.

The program supports artistic growth, professional readiness, and creative expression by integrating performance, choreography, and career‑focused learning within a comprehensive arts pathway.

 

Core Experiences

  • MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal
  • Earn an optional industry recognized credential (IRC) in business marketing or entrepreneurship
  • Complete a dance capstone project
  • Career experiences with MCPS partners

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills in the Arts
    Students in the MCPS Regional Dance programs will develop strong technical skills resulting in audition ready performers.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience in the Arts
    Have the opportunity to earn industry recognized credentials related to business marketing or entrepreneurship while designing and implementing a capstone project related to their chosen career focus with support from MCPS partners.
  3. Foster College, Career, and/or Community Pathways in the Arts
    Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in the arts by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and engagement with industry professionals equipping them to complete the MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal requirements.

 

Application & Locations

Application: Criteria-based application

Schools:

  • Region 1: Northwood
  • Region 2: Blake
  • Region 3: Woodward
  • Region 4: Richard Montgomery
  • Region 5: Gaithersburg
  • Region 6: Seneca Valley

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Dance Program. Cells in purple are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grades 6–8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Dance experience in Middle School preferred
Dance Center 1 (Double period, earns 1 credit PE and one credit Fine Arts) Dance Center 2

Dance Center 3 (Double Period)


Students propose capstone

Dance Center 4
(Double Period)


Capstone Project

Dance Elective or Dance Company
English English English English
Math Math Math Math
Science Science Science Elective (Technology Education or Health)
Social Studies Social Studies Social Studies Elective (Technology Education or Health)
World Language World Language

Dance Elective/Dance Company or
Arts Business/Management or
World Language

Dance Elective/Dance Company or
Arts Internship or
World Language

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Dance Program and earn the related certificate:

  • Dance Core
    • Dance Center 1, 2, 3 & 4 (Capstone project in Level 4)
    • 1 Credit dance elective or Dance Company
  • Focus
    • Dance
      • 2 Additional credits of dance electives or dance company
    • Fine Arts Business/Management
      • Arts Business & Management
      • Arts Internship
    • World Language
      • Completion of 4 credits in world language plus Seal of Biliteracy