Local high schools participate at Magic City Dance-Off

From The Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUNTY — At the Magic City Dance-Off, five Jefferson County middle and high schools students traveled to Gardendale High School to showcase their music and dancing talent on Friday, February 11, 2022.

Clay-Chalkville won first place at the Magic City Dance-Off. (Photo courtesy of Chelsea Holmes)

The students with special needs were paired with peers to perform in the annual event. First and second place winners received monetary prizes for their classrooms. Performances were judged on criteria including evidence of practice, involvement of peers, inclusion of all class members, and student-made props and/or costumes.

Clay-Chalkville High School won first place at the Magic City Dance Off.

The Gardendale High School Fine Arts Department provided the sound production for the dances. Culinary classes from Gardendale High School and Pinson Valley High School served lunches and provided desserts. Peer volunteers from Corner High School helped set up, assist with lunch, and dance with students at the Valentine’s Day dance that followed lunch in the practice gym. Various clubs and organizations at Gardendale High School helped with decorations. Cafeteria workers from Gardendale High School also helped out. Gardendale High School administrators, teachers, and coordinators have worked together to provide a day of fun for everyone.

Food was donated from Tyson Foods and Golden Flake Snack Foods.

The Magic City Dance-Off was created several years ago by the Adapted Physical Education program within the JefCoEd Department of Exceptional Education. It was developed to encourage students to be active participants in dance performances while working with peers in the school. Social and communication skills will be practiced as they work together, perform in front of an audience, eat lunch within a new setting, and interact with friends from different schools. In addition, they will practice the latest dance moves as they enjoy their favorite music at the Valentine’s Day Dance.

The JEFCOED Exceptional Education Department has actively provided inclusive experiences for students with special needs in the community.