Students and staff at the Knox Learning Center in Mount Vernon gather every Wednesday morning to dance together before classes begin, according to a Mar. 19 announcement. The weekly event features music such as the Cha Cha Slide and is open to all students and staff.
The dance routine aims to create a positive start to the school day for everyone involved. Dr. Timm Mackley, superintendent of the Knox Educational Service Center, said, “It’s a great way to start the day before classes begin. Everyone is in sync.”
The Knox Educational Service Center operates the Learning Center, which serves kindergarten through twelfth grade as an alternative school in the former Mount Vernon West Elementary building. Mackley explained that participation is encouraged for all: “Everyone is welcome to participate – elementary, middle and high school students, teachers and staff. We have a rotating schedule of dances that include the Cupid Shuffle, the Cha Cha Slide and Cotton-Eye Joe. We’re working on the Electric Slide.”
Rene Runyon, a student/staff support specialist who helped start the tradition several years ago, said, “I like to dance and I think it starts the day off well. It’s fun. The children really enjoy seeing the adults involved. I think the dancing sets them up for a good day.” School nurse John Campbell added that dancing has health benefits: “Dancing first thing in the morning gets the kids active. It stretches muscles and releases endorphins in the brain that improve mood,” Campbell said. “It’s a great way to start the day, mentally, physically and emotionally.” He also said he believes it helps students focus throughout their classes.
Staff members are considering expanding their repertoire after taking line dancing classes at a local center and encouraging others to join future sessions.
Mackley noted that while daily dancing might diminish its appeal, keeping it as a weekly event maintains excitement among students: “The novelty would wear off,” Mackley said. “It’s something the kids look forward to each week.”
