Dance Program
Courses offered
Beginning Dance
This class is designed to introduce students to basic dance terminology, technique, and dance class etiquette. This class presents alignment principles, weight shifts, level changes, and the elements of dance such as space, time, and energy. Students will be exposed to Jazz, Modern, Ballet, West African, and other World dance techniques.
In addition to their introduction to dance terminology through praxis, students will also read about dance, write about dance, and observe both live and filmed dance performances.
Each marking period all students are required to take an outside approved dance class in a variety of dance genres.
Intermediate/Advanced Dance
This class is designed to introduce students to basic dance terminology, technique, and dance class etiquette. This class presents alignment principals, weight shifts, level changes, and the elements of dance such as space, time, and energy. Students will be exposed to: Jazz, Modern, Ballet, West African, and other World dance techniques.
In addition to their introduction to dance terminology through praxis, student will also read about dance, write about dance, and observe both live and videoed dance performances.
About Ms Dori
Ms. Dori is an Oakland Tech alum, a passionate educator, facilitator, and multidisciplinary artist from Oakland, CA. With a strong foundation in socio-emotional learning, restorative justice, and anti-racist practices, she brings creativity, compassion, and cultural relevance into every classroom. She has served in various roles across OUSD—including instructional aide, substitute teacher, and youth program leader—supporting students' academic, emotional, and creative growth. Her mission is to inspire students to be their authentic selves and use art as a tool for healing and liberation.
Formerly teaching both African American Female Excellence and Dance, Ms. Dori is the full-time dance teacher at Tech. As her classroom reflects her lifestyle, she aims to bring joy, mindfulness, and movement to her students as she helps rebuild the dance program.