VVHS Dance Receives Program of Excellence Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — 9/10/2020

The Valley Vista High School (VVHS) dance program was awarded the 2020 K-12 Dance Program of Excellence award by the Arizona Dance Education Organization (AzDEO). The award was announced at the AzDEO annual meeting, and the school was presented with a plaque and $500 donation for the program. Valley Vista is the first high school to receive this award.

In order to receive the award, dance programs must exhibit growth and inclusiveness; a comprehensive, rigorous curriculum based on artistic processes that supports a well-rounded education; address the needs of all students; be student-centered; have parent and community support and engagement; and provide access to professional development.

In the award letter from AzDEO President, Andrea Downing states “the Valley Vista dance program under the leadership of Amy Crow exemplifies these principles. Arizona has many fine dance programs, but Valley Vista’s embodies the best in dance education.”

Amy Crow has been the dance teacher at Valley Vista High School since the school opened in 2006, building the program from the ground up. There are currently nine dance classes serving 280 students at Valley Vista High School. Among the many accolades the dance program has received are superior, distinction and proficient awards at the AzDEO High School Dance Festival; 20 students inducted into the National Honor Society of Dance Arts; and student recipients of the AzDEO Student Leadership Award, state level Artistic Merit, Leadership and Academic Achievement Award, and guiDANCE Mentor Program. 

“We are very blessed to have so many dance educators in Arizona who felt the Valley Vista Dance Program exhibits the education that students deserve,” said dance teacher Amy Crow.

“The Valley Vista Dance Program is a top notch program that is still continuing to grow and move forward under the leadership and guidance of Ms. Crow,” said Dysart’s Director of Arts Education, Danae Marinelli. “Her students continue on in life with the skills and mindset that allow them to be successful in their endeavors whether it be becoming a dance professional or some other path. Valley Vista Dance program is an exemplar program.”

The Dysart Unified School District values arts education and was one of the first districts to participate in the inaugural Arizona State Seal of Arts Proficiency program which was launched last year. Dysart schools had 47 graduates earn the seal in its first year.