Mad Hot Ballroom

I don't know how many of you have seen the documentary Mad Hot Ballroom, but it is one of my favorite films of all time. I have had the privilege of participating in the program with my class for the last two years. Last year was the first year so the kids weren't that excited, but this year they are really into it. We have a blast! We have learned the Tango, Salsa, Merengue, Waltz, Rumba, Swing, and others. For those of you who have seen the film, this program often promotes a change in the kids- from girls and boys to little ladies and gentlemen. I didn't see much of this change last year but this year I couldn't be prouder if they were all my own children... and you all know I am attached to them as if they were. My boys have turned into little gentleman who gently lead the girls and twirl them and bow when the dance ends. It makes my heart leap. When the boys have to dance with me they are always little gentleman and careful to lead correctly. My girls have become sophisticated and elegant. It is so cute! Most importantly, they are learning to be respectful to each other. We have our performance on Tuesday and I am so excited. We had a practice today and I was tearing up just watching them. My heart literally swells with pride. This transformation has carried over into the classroom as well. I have finally gotten my kids to master the please and thank yous. In the grand scheme of things, this may seem a minor fete but for me, this little change can transform the way the kids treat each other. Now when a student holds the door for the class in the halls, the kids say, "Thank you." automatically. I was skeptical of the impact the ballroom program would have on the kids but I am now a believer. I will be there Tuesday, tears streaming down my face, and pride in my heart. Wish us luck!

P.S. I am aware of the need for paragraphs in this posting but when I published it the first time it was double spacing the first paragraph and not the rest. Since all of you know I am very OCD I could not stand for this so... no paragraphs. Better to sacrifice the paragraphs than my sanity. :o) 

See! It is doing it with the P.S. !