Inspired to find ways to reach the rising number of students struggling with anxiety and isolation, Montclair middle school dance teachers proposed this innovative way to nurture human connection and self-esteem among teens. Few activities require the patience, persistence, and teamwork that ballroom dance demands.

Funds will support NJPAC teaching artists who will work collaboratively with our deep bench of dance teachers to launch the Mad Hot Ballroom Montclair initiative. Eighth graders in all three middle schools will spend 10 weeks learning 5 dances and compete in a district-wide competition! Funds will allow MFEE to continue supporting this work and eventually extend it to 5th grade students.

Through MFEE-funded intergenerational story slams, students who do not always find success in traditional English classes are excelling through the power of spoken word.

They craft exquisite and raw pieces as they find and share their voices.

Increased funds will allow MFEE to integrate it more deeply at Montclair High.

Through middle school poetry slams, teens are processing the range of emotions that they experience during early adolescence. This work provides an invaluable outlet for some strong feelings and is vital to teens' development. Funds support professional teaching artists who nurture strong literacy and social/emotional skills.