April 5, 2025 njads
Starting high school is a whirlwind of emotions—new classes, new friends, and perhaps a brand-new sense of independence. For dancers, this can be a time when the temptation to quit lessons arises. After all, your schedule is filling up, your responsibilities are growing, and maybe you’re wondering whether dance still fits into the picture. Let me tell you: Grade 9 isn’t the time to quit dance—it’s the time to embrace it even more. Here’s why.
1. A Lifeline in a World of Change
High school is full of adjustments, and it can be overwhelming at times. Dance offers a constant—a familiar place where you can express yourself, be creative, and feel a sense of belonging. When everything else is changing, having that solid foundation can make all the difference in navigating this new chapter of your life.
2. A Path to Self-Confidence
Grade 9 is a time of self-discovery, and dance lessons are the perfect way to build confidence. Whether you’re nailing a tricky move or performing in front of an audience, each accomplishment reminds you of your abilities and resilience. The confidence you gain in the studio will spill over into other aspects of your life, from school projects to social interactions.
3. Balance for a Busy Mind
The academic demands of high school can feel like a lot, but dance provides a mental escape. Stepping into the studio allows you to leave your stress at the door and focus entirely on movement, rhythm, and artistry. It’s an outlet that helps you manage stress, stay grounded, and return to your studies with renewed energy.
4. The Friends Who Stick Around
Your dance classmates often become some of your closest friends. You’ve spent years sweating it out together, celebrating victories, and supporting each other through tough days. High school friendships can shift and change, but your dance family is there for the long haul—because they share your passion and commitment.
5. Building Skills for Life
Beyond pirouettes and pliés, dance teaches invaluable life skills: discipline, teamwork, time management, and goal-setting. These skills will set you up for success not just in high school, but in whatever path you choose to pursue. Quitting now means losing out on these crucial lessons that go far beyond the dance floor.
6. The Joy of Movement
At its core, dance is about joy. It’s about losing yourself in music, challenging your body in incredible ways, and discovering the beauty of self-expression. As school gets busier, it’s important to hold on to the things that make you happy—and dance has a magical way of doing just that.
Don’t Let Grade 9 Be Your Finale!
Quitting dance might feel like the easier choice when high school starts, but it’s also the choice you might regret later. Staying committed to dance lessons during Grade 9—and beyond—means keeping a piece of yourself alive and thriving. It’s a reminder of who you are and who you’re becoming.
So, to all the Grade 9 students contemplating whether to lace up their dance shoes or hang them up for good: Choose to dance. You’ll thank yourself later for staying true to your passion.