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Chance to Dance
Ballet Wichita's education and community engagement program - bringing dance, movement, and life skills to elementary students across Wichita.
about the program
Dance as a Pathway to Life Skills
Chance to Dance is a thoughtfully designed dance and movement curriculum that gives elementary students an inspiring pathway to build physical skills and essential life skills — including leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal awareness.
Through the power of movement, students discover a sense of identity and confidence while learning to respect and collaborate with others in a supportive environment.
why it matters
The Research is Clear
Arts education in schools improves academic, social, emotional, and cognitive development. It is about far more than artistic ability — it is about developing life skills and offering a safe space to learn resilience.
6
Weeks of weekly classroom sessions per school
50
Minutes per class session in the classroom
2
Teaching artists per classroom team
The program
How Chance to Dance Works
01
Teaching Artists Are Trained
WSU students, BWA dancers, and local college students receive training from Ballet Wichita's Advancement Coordinator before leading classroom sessions.
02
Weekly Sessions in Schools
Teaching teams of two lead 50-minute classes once a week for 6 weeks in elementary classrooms across USD 259.
03
Pathways to the Academy
Students who show a particular passion or skill for dance are offered a scholarship to continue their training at the Ballet Wichita Academy.
the bigger picture
Benefits That Go Both Ways
Chance to Dance creates lasting benefits for everyone involved. Students gain physical, social, and emotional skills in a safe space that encourages resilience, personal growth, and a love for the arts.
Teaching Artists gain valuable classroom experience, earn college credit, receive compensation, and become role models — helping expand access to quality dance instruction in Wichita, especially for children who might not otherwise have this opportunity.
get involved
Two Ways to Be Part of It
01
Become a Teaching Artist
WSU students, BWA dancers, and local college students welcome
Chance to Dance runs in the fall semester, with teacher training in late summer or early fall. Teaching Artists receive hands-on training, earn college credit, and are compensated for their time. Apply online to join the team.
Questions about Chance to Dance?
Contact Jane Mosley, Community Engagement Coordinator at jane@balletwichita.com