Ms Karli and her Hip Hop Classes in Woodward

Our Ms Karli spent time at a hip hop training and met Paul Ross (Choreo Cookies) and  Cameron (Misfit) Graham. Be sure to check out her hip hop classes for children though adult.

Ms Karli and Cameron Graham

Paul Ross and Ms Karli

Join us for Hip Hop Classes!

Bring A Friend Week

So When Is Big Not Better?

We sometimes have a problem in the states. It is the "Big Is Better" Syndrome. We choose to shop in large malls that provide a majority of Big Retail stores. We buy memberships to large shopping clubs to receive Big Discounts. We drive Big SUVs and have a Big Gas bill and insurance bill so that we have comfort and are considered well to do. We overlook the small fitness gyms in favor of the Big Ones, because that is where everyone goes.

We also look at Big Universities for our children, in hopes that it will bring about Big Accomplishments. We select Big Team Sports over individual ones, so that our child can sit the bench with the other 12 in case they do not get to play. We hold their birthday parties at the locations with the Biggest Party Room, just in case all 22 children invited might show up.

So when is BIG not really better?

We complain about our children's classrooms being over filled and the teacher has no time for each individual child. We complain about our daycare systems and how they do not hire enough top quality people to care for all the children on site.

We complain when the drive through at the local fast food place to get a meal for our children that is guaranteed to make them happy, is too long of a wait. And we complain that the drive is too far to the Bigger and Better school across town because we like their playground better.

We complain that our child does not get enough attention in a dance class because there are three lines, and ours is always on the back row. We complain that our child tool three years of gymnastics and cannot do a technically correct cartwheel yet. We complain that the band director at the public school has no time to work with our child and how unfair that is.

So when is Big Not Better?

We complain that our two hour trip to a movie theater to see a movie on a Bigger Screen with Bigger Sound was a bust because we did not like the movie. We complain that when we went to the Big Town for our anniversary, we had to wait for over an hour to be seated to eat.

So when is Big Not Better?

We complain that the special group we hold membership in, is no longer working for us and search out another Big Group or one that everyone wants to be a member of. We complain that life is  not fair and we want someone else life, happiness, family, friends, business, church, etc., etc.

So when is Big Not Better?

Well, I believe that Big is Not Better when the situation makes you unhappy and you can only see and hear the complaints. Nothing about staying in those situations, or seeking out other similar groups, places, sports, activities and friends, will make a Big Difference.

I can say that I do believe that smaller, more intimate, supporting, loving, positive and uplifting choices can make a Big Difference in your life and of those you love.

So when is Big Not Better in a fine arts school, gym or sport?

*When your child takes more than two years of classes and has not developed a vocabulary for the movements, steps, and technique.
*When your child cannot tell you what they worked on in class or training that day.
*When your child has not been helped to explore the history and passion of and for what they participate in.
*When your child is afraid to miss a practice or class because they had been "throwing up" the night before.
*When your child wants to sit the bench with 12 others so they "can belong" and not be noticed for their efforts or do so to please a friend or parent.
*When your child is so overlooked by the teacher or coach because they (the coach/teacher) do not see the value of having to help your child to become better. It is not their job.
*When you, as their parent, have tears in your eyes and hold disappointment in your heart because your child is not being fully valued.
*When your tears and disappointment have turned to anger and rage at the teacher or coach's insensitivity to those that are not included fully in some way.
*When your budget and time will not allow you to get private coaching and lessons so you can then put them back into the Big Events at a better or higher participating level.
*When you just want to yank them from the program and teach your child to quit.

When Small May Be Better........

Our daughters took part in group school sports as well as non-school groups and individual situations. They did not attend the largest dance conventions, sports camps or played on the most dominant summer sports leagues. All three attended small private universities. They competed in small group and solo dance competitions. All three were involved in university level sports. They are all doing very well in life and are now raising their own families. One is a mental health expert, another a Chiropractor and the other a multi business manager.

When together and reminiscing about their time together, they talk only a tiny bit of time about their school sports and large group activities. Mostly they talk and laugh about the good times and friends at our school, dance conventions, dance recitals, solos dances that went well and some that did not. I love taking a back seat and watching all of this instead of joining in and trying to lead the conversation. They watch old dance recital videos. They ask if I know what ever happened to former friends and classmates.

I get teary eyed at times at watching this amazing thing that happens. I see how strong they are. How well rounded they are in life, without being too well rounded that they are a square peg that does not fit. I am happy that I said "no" a few times to groups they wanted to be a part of for all the wrong reasons. And I know that Big is Not Better because it never gives you the time and the space to find your real self and your own passions.

But My Child Wasn't Learning And Wants To Do Something Else

It's that time of year again. Your child want's to go do what their new friend is doing, even though you have spent hours and money in classes already. What to do?

The first thing is to talk to your child's teacher or coach you have been taking classes with first. Before any decision  is made. They may have some great insights for you to share with your child.

Did you know that probably 90 % of the time when a child is allowed to quit classes, change classes or even change where they have been training, that child was at a point of achieving something great in class, and then it is over by one decision to let them quit or change. When making them stick it out could of made all of the difference.

Adults that have a hard time holding a job for a great deal of time or have difficulty in following through and completing projects , have shared that their parents allowed them to start and stop things at a whim or for what was the most popular at the time. They, as employees, find themselves disorganized, unfocused and unable to make great life changing decisions. Most will say that they wish their parents had held to their decision about lessons and made them continue.

There is great value in being consistent and persistent when it comes to training for your child. And though your child may whine and want to go with their friends, constantly changing  may actually devalue the training you have already acquired.

What helps a child to progress in classes? Consistency mostly. Constant training from one great source of information and background. Year after year training with the same source is the most beneficial. It allows the students to grow and develop in skills, mature and become comfortable and trusting not only in their own abilities, but also trusting in the source of the training.

Persistency is also important. Those that are taught to stick things out through to the end are the ones that will see themselves completing their college education and following their dreams. They have been taught that there is value in following through to the end, and little value in starting, stopping, starting, stopping and starting again.

The performing and fine arts training your child is involved in can make a great difference in their lives. It can teach them that when things are hard, you just push a little harder. When things are tough, you work a little tougher. When you fall down, you get up. And when you friends are going off and doing one thing and then the next, you stick it out for the long run, because you may not be an Olympic Gymnast or a Prima Ballerina, but sticking with the fine arts for years in succession in one solid training ground, just may help you to be a doctor, physiologist, school teacher, nurse, writer, artist or business owner. Just like some of our former students that stayed in classes through their senior year in high school.

Yes, there is value is sticking things out. There is also great value in continuing your training under the same teacher, coach or institution. There is great value in the fine arts.

 

 

NOW REGISTERING FOR THIS FUN MASTER CLASS IN AUGUST!

 

This is a great class for students in acrobatics, tumbling, gymnastics and dance!

Master Teachers will be teaching beginner to intermediate level skills depending on the age and level of the students.

 

5 yrs and up!

 

LIMITED ENROLLMENT!

The Value of Dance Classes by Rhiannon McGinnis Tuck

We have another guest BLOGGER today. Former student Rhiannon McGinnis Tuck shares with you what dance meant to her and how it has empowered her life as a public educator and parent of twin girls:

My name is Rhiannon McGinnis Tuck and I have been teaching Kindergarten for 11 years. I have always loved dance and I started dancing when I was just 2 years old and continued formally dancing until my freshman year of college. Dance has taught me so much in life and one thing that it has taught me is dedication. To be a dancer you have to be dedicated- to practice, stay healthy, stretch, etc. Through my dedication that I had towards dance I have learned to keep trying in all that I do. I know that practice makes permanent and I have carried this over into my classroom to teach my students. I have taught them to practice things that are taught and it will get easier. It has also helped me out being a mom and helping my girls. I have taught them and shown them to have dedication in all that they do in life whether it be sports, dance, or school.

Dance has taken me many places in my life. Some of my very fondest memories involve dance in some way. I actually did things through dance that I never dreamed I would get to do. Some of these include: dancing in the halftime of the Citrus Bowl Game, dancing on a cruise ship, dancing during high school football games, and being on a competitive dance team. What fun learning experiences I had from being in dance.

As an adult a way that I still incorporate dance into my life is every morning in school I dance with my Kinders. It is a great brain break and they LOVE free dancing and me teaching them dances. It is a bonding experience for us all. It also helps keep up fit and active in a very fun way. I also take a ZUMBA class and since I grew up being a dancer I catch onto the dances very easily and I love dancing to stay in shape! It is so fun it doesn’t even feel like exercise.

I am a mother of twin 8 year old girls. One of my highlights of being a mom is that now my girls are taking dance class. I get to see the love and passion of dance through their eyes. Since I grew up dancing I can properly help them with their dance routines. I then get to see them on stage dancing and having the time of their life! I can honestly say that dance has made one of the biggest impact on my life!

Skills and Values From Dance by Krista Smith Asbell

Note* Dear readers, I have asked some former students, that are now grown and parenting their own children , to write as a guest blogger on what skills and values they received from taking dance classes, that they now realize have carried over to their adult life. My hope is that this will be fresh, first hand information that new families to dance or other classes will find helpful in supporting their child's effort. I believe you will find great value in the perception of these young mothers.

 

Our first Guest Blogger is Krista Smith Asbell :

 

I have always loved to dance.  My parents used to take me to a Mexican restaurant that had a mariachi.  When I was 18 months old, I would climb out of my seat and dance to the mariachi's music.  Today, 28 years later, one of my favorite things to do is to go dancing with my husband or dancing in the living room with my 18 month old daughter.  Dance taught me so many things.  It taught me how nothing comes without hard work, to live a healthy lifestyle, and if you’re having a bad day – get moving!  I can not wait for my daughter to start dance lessons, so I can watch her grow, not only as a dancer, but as a person. 

            I began dance as an activity when I was in the third grade.  When I was in the fourth grade, I begged Miss Mary to not take ballet.  However, I disappointingly enrolled for tap, jazz, and the dreaded ballet.  See, I did not understand that ballet is the foundation for ALL types of dance.  I had no idea the great things ballet, alone, was doing for me.  Ballet, in my opinion, is the hardest type of dance.  It is more structured, requires more technique, and requires more muscle control and conditioning than the other forms of dance.  Without ballet, you can be a good dancer, but you can not be a great dancer! From this experience, I learned you will not get any where in life, unless you do the work first.  To achieve anything in life, there is always lots of sacrifices and hard work to first be completed. 

            Dance established the basis for me to be healthy.  I wasn't just going to dance lessons; it was like going to therapy every week.  I may have walked into dance with four tests at school that week, drama among junior high girls, and life in general, but not when I walked out.  When I left dance, I felt like a whole new person!  Dance lets you express yourself in a healthy way, when sometimes, there are no words to express what you are feeling.  It was also intense, low impact exercise.  It was great cardio, especially with Miss Mary’s tap routines! Even though ballet wasn't my favorite, it was excellent conditioning, and I grew to appreciate ballet. To this day, I keep active to minimize stress, support muscle tone, also it makes me feel good.   

           I also gained an appreciation of all types of music.  Dance helps in so many aspects of life, especially a young person's life.  It increases athletic abilities, engages both right and left brain thinking, creates excellent posture, and builds confidence. I can’t think of a better activity for children to keep their mind, body, and soul healthy. I am still reaping the benefits of dance today.  Dancing made me happy and still does.  Anytime I catch my toddler dancing, I encourage her – whether we are in public or at home – because I know it makes her happy.  That is the most wonderful thing about dance, it makes people happy.  If the music makes you want to move, then get moving!

Krista Smith Asbell

Public Educator

Are You Committed To Your Child's Success?

When I talk about the value that the fine arts have to offer children, to potential parents, I often feel that they may be thinking "here we go with the sales pitch". When really it is just my passion and experience over the years that makes me to want to share with everyone.

The value of the fine arts is huge for every child. And most of the time, there is a fine art that your child will enjoy (except for those fussy days where they do not enjoy anything). Some of the values are universal, so it does not matter which one your child is interested in or even if they later switch to another. But this BLOG post is not about the values of the arts.

This post is about what we as parents should consider when signing our children up for classes, school electives and activities. The questions we should ask. The plans we should make. The celebrations for successful moments. All of this is important and the hope is that parents will find value in this information for themselves.

Most children are signed up for classes or activities each season or year because it is what "everyone is doing". This is especially so for participation in short term activities such as community sports leagues, summer camps, etc. Mindlessly, parents line up with their child to register, because the neighbor down the street mentioned their child was going to participate in the activity, without even a thought about safety, child's interest, or even long term value from what the child will experience or learn from participation.

Then the parent sits in the stands, or worse, posts on Facebook, their rage at the volunteer coaches, umpires, other teams, camp attendants or parents. They are unhappy because they were already "too busy for this" and takes it out on the child when the child does not perform well through their participation level, or lack of. It is easy to brow beat a child who is seat belted in the back seat.

Long term classes, such as dance, music, art, gymnastics is also a breeding ground for displeasure for the parent when the child is not progressing as quickly as the young performers they see on television each week. This parent is displeased when their child is not able to perform a giant in gymnastics or a pirouette in ballet after completing a six week introductory class. After all, they do it on television reality shows! (Here is where knowing parents and teachers alike, smile.)

With any class or activity, parents are encouraged to take the time to fully research the situation and spend time talking to their children to find out if there really is an interest on the child's part. Be sure to enter into the new class or activity with as much information as possible. Ask a lot of questions at registration time. And verify one more time with you child, after they have heard all the details about participating in the class or activity. Also cover with your child about the commitment level expected. 

Some questions you may want to ask are:

1. What are the specific details about the class or activity? 

2. What are any safety concerns for my child?

3. Are the adults in charge volunteers or employees? What is their training level?

4. How do you prepare the coaches/ teachers to conduct the class or activity for my child?

5. Are the coaches or teachers background checked? Drug tested?

6. What is the learning objective for this class or activity?

7. What is the long term value for my child in participating in this class or activity?

8. Are there progression levels that are written out so I can see the expectations to reach the next level? Where can I find that information?

9. How will I know if my child makes the check offs for the levels or what they need to work on to continue progressing in the classes or activities?

10. If I have a question or concern, who do I speak with? 

11. Can my child really learn something to take with them in a 6-8 week class or activity?

12. What if my child does not enjoy this?

Always remember that when signing your child up for classes or activities that you are taking on a family commitment. A commitment to follow through to the end of the session, class or activity.  So do be careful when selecting programs or organizations. Find ones that are committed to your child's success. 

And always use the resources that are available to use to keep your child interested. Great programs and organizations have fantastic ways of keeping your child entertained and engaged for the long haul. Also remember that there will be days or even weeks your child will resist going to,something they originally wanted to do. Be patient with them but be committed to helping them see it through. They will later thank you for it........... Just remember that to be truly good at something, it takes time, hard word and commitment. An activity or class that has true long term values for your child needs to be an education. Commit to finding the best for your child. 

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Don't Miss It! It is AWESOME!

Tomorrow, we have a very special event for our students here at our Woodward location. Mary James, songwriter and professional performer will be at our school from 6:00 pm-6:30 pm prior to her concert! She is coming FOR OUR STUDENTS and families to be able to visit with her about her career as a song writer, author, musician, vocalist and tv actor. Now how often does that happen in NW Oklahoma? Hardly never!

Why are we doing this? We had an opportunity and seized it! This lady has a wonderful story of perseverance, faith and passion to tell and all of our students can benefit from. It is a lesson of even when life becomes hard, we must push on and move forward to achieve what we are working for.
(Mary James was in an accident that actually paralyzed her vocal cords and there was little hope by medical personnel to be able to continue to sing.)

We do hope that all of our families will see the value in this event and will want to participate in the meet & greet at our school March 28th at 6:00 pm. Then if you are looking for a fun Parents Night Out, arrange with us today for tickets for the show and for your child to stay at the school for pizza and a movie! All for only $60 (includes tickets to the show for the parents and one student staying for pizza and movie---$10 extra for each child added)

Today is your last day to get your tickets (pay in person today at our school or call and pay over the phone to reserve your tickets.) Those that attend will be talking about this for some time! Those that miss will wish they had attended. We don't want you to be left out for sure!

Oh! Be sure your child brings an autograph book with them to the meet and greet (which is free to all of our students and those that got a special invitation yesterday) And we will see you at the most talked about even in Woodward in 2014 tomorrow!

School or Studio?

In visiting with and listening to parents lately, there seems to be some confusion about school. Just the label "school" in itself seems to mean different things to different people. The conversation came up recently when a new inquiry asked why we called our place a "school" and not a "studio".

I went on to explain that the word "studio" really did not explain what we do here at Academy of Fine Arts. We call our selves a school, and operate as one, because we teach educational programs such as dance, music, gymnastics/tumbling, swimming (in our Woodward location) and an arts based preschool.

Our programs are syllabus based and having learning objectives for our students. The classes are organized and planned out by qualified teachers that continually train each year to become better at what they teach. Our school program has received recognition on the state, regional and national levels.

But you will fine "studios" within our school. The studios are equipped rooms that meets the needs of the students and teachers that take a class in there. Specialized floors for training, sound systems (not boom boxes), mirrors, barres, gymnastic equipment, pianos, drums, art equipment and supplies, preschool activity centers, desks and supplies. Each studio is set up for the type of class that is offered in that room. Even multifunctional studios are equipped to meet the needs to the different classes held in them.

When looking at the definition of the word studio, you will find the following:

1

a :  the working place of a painter, sculptor, or photographer

b :  a place for the study of an art (as dancing, singing, or acting)

2

a :  a place where motion pictures are made

b :  a company that produces motion pictures

3

:  a place maintained and equipped for the transmission of radio or television programs

4

:  a place where audio recordings are made

 

When looking at the definition of the word school, you also find the following:

 

1

:  an organization that provides instruction: as

a :  an institution for the teaching of children

b :  college, university

 

We do believe that we provide instruction and that most of our students are children. We also know that each and every program that we teach, with consistent training and passion, can lead to a college or university scholarship and to a career. Therefor, we prefer to call ourselves a school. It just so happens that our classes are taught in studios.

 

But it does not matter what our families call us.When talking about their classes to friends and family, it  dose not matter because they are always being told about our terrific programs and how many of our students have went on to a college or university to further their education. You see, "studio" or "school" does not matter when your program is doing the right thing for their students.

Why Music FunTime?

Music FunTime is a theory based music program for children as young as 18 months of age. Not like other music/playtime programs, Music FunTime actually teaches children to recognize music symbols, name the notes of the treble and bass clef and start reading music before they can even read a book!

Impossible you say? No, not really. Based on research, young children can learn to recognize music symbols, name the parts of and note of the staff and all before they can even read a book! It is a lot like teaching the young child how to recognize colors, number and recite the alphabet. It is all very easy when in the right environment and with the right teachers.

Music fun time is also filled with musical games and crafts to take home! Each child receives their own personal rhythm instruments to take home and bring back each week. The cost of all of this fun is included in the monthly tuition!

Parents will be amazed when their child asks, "mommy do you know how many beats are in a whole note?" We even have two year olds right now that recognize a whole note, half note and quarter note!

Yes, Music FunTime is an educational program that is fun. It also is a program that can prepare your child for private lessons and start them to recognized letters, counting, and much more.

Progressive parents will recognize the value in this program. We are pleased to be a Music FunTime provider for the Woodward and Enid areas! Register early!

Just Part Of The Uniform

Traditionally, dance schools have had required class dancewear. Such as the one piece leotard, tights (absolutely), waist belt or skirt, hair tightly secured (most often a bun). For boys, black tights/pants, belt, white shirt. The uniform of a dancer, was much like the uniform of a Girl or Boy Scouts uniform. It meant that you were privileged to be a member of an important group of boys and girls your age, your level and studying/being a part of  your interest or passion. 

Much like private schools have had their "uniforms", dance uniforms also served a need. It allowed you to be able to focus on what you were in attendance for. No distractions. No worrying that someone else may have on something that is better than what your parents could afford or that your current wear did not meet the current social trends.

Then there were the crossovers. The one that sticks out the most was after the movie Flashdance hit the big screen, and the next thing you knew was that dancewear was now cool enough to be street wear....LEGWARMERS! Shrugs were available on almost every little girls Easter dress for awhile too. Admit it! You have either seen others wearing these dance items, or you did it yourself! And oh, how... cool... it... was...!

Today, it is the SOCK BUN! So cool! So nifty! So handy! You don't even need clean hair for it! Right? Of course! But guess what cultural Fashionistas, dancers beat you to it! Yep! Sock buns have been around for generations and dancers have been sporting them in classes even before you knew what they were! So cool! So nifty! So in style!

My point is, if what dancers wear in class (or are suppose to wear in class) is so hip today on the street, why do we struggle getting our dancers, acrobats and gymnasts to show up for class properly prepared? Why are we purchasing a ring of hair ties to have on hand because we know that we will need to hand them out at the beginning of class? Why do we have to ask, "where is your leotard?"

If a uniform , that allows you to be part of a very special group or class that some young men and young ladies would beg their parents for, why do you not come bursting through the doors of our school shouting "HERE I AM! AREN'T I AMAZING?!"

Is it because we have forgotten to tell you how amazing you are? Or is it because we have forgotten to remind you every week that you are a part of a very special class of young people that hold the breathe of your audience every time you turn, leap, pause or smile from the stage. No other athlete has that ability. Seldom do you see a football or basketball player able to bring tears to their audiences eyes except...... for when they.... loose.... the..... game.

Yes being part of your dance or gymnastics class, fully uniformed, means a little bit of extra work. It means you have to remember where you put your leotard. It means you have to remember that tights are a dancers tool to warm the muscles. It means you have to take a moment to say to yourself......
"I am amazing! So let's go work on being able to make other people hold their breathe and tear up, while I move my marvelous body across the floor. I am powerful. I am special. I am a dancer!

New Classes This Fall

New classes will be added to the fall schedule to accommodate students that are homeschooler, virtual schooled or in our Learning Coach Service program. These classes will be held in the early afternoon ( and possibly in the mornings).

Classes we are planning on offering this fall are Ballet I and II, Ballet Technique Class, Jazz I and II, Tap I and II. Pre-Tumble and Dance will also be offered for our Preschool and Pre-K students that are registered in the Move-N-Learn Academy. By offering earlier classes, these student will be able to blend their training into their school day and receive many benefits of physical activity and more.

Also offered in the earlier class periods will be group music and vocal as well as art.

Those interested in the classes need to pre-register by May 1st to be assured the class will be held. A delay in registration could mean the class could be filled or dropped from the schedule.

Registration for the Learning Coach Services is also due by May 1st.

The Unmentioned Heroes

Recently in class, a conversation broke out among students approximately age 9-12 years of age. The conversation turned to heroes. One of the things that I noticed was that the majority of the heroes that they admired were actually cartoon heroes and not real people that they could actually look up to. Really? What is wrong with that?

It was not that I wanted them to mention dancers or musicians, although throughout history there have been many worth mentioning. Like one of my heroes from childhood that always changed a bad situation into a wink and a smile, Shirley Temple. But it would of been nice if it had not been a pretend action hero.

Heroes should be people that have made a difference in our society. Whether they meant to or not, they changed us and changed us for the good. Heroes should be those that have made a stand or a high commitment and saw it through. Someone that was brave, even if they did not feel brave every moment of their life.

But true heroes are people that do not even realize that they are held in high honor. People that are just trying to get through the day, the week, the month, the year. People that work hard and do not even know that some people notice.

A few years back we had a hero here at our studio and she never knew it. No one even mentioned her as a hero and maybe we did not realize she was at the time, because all of us were just trying to get through the day, the week, the month, the year.

There was a parent that had her children in classes with us. The oldest had been in class for some time actually, when their life changed. You see, the husband and dad, decided he did not want to be a family any more. Being high school sweethearts was not enough to carry them through.

I remember the day the mom came to me and told me the story of how it all unfolded and that she would have to take her children out of classes. I remember my heart sinking , not because I was going to loose multiple students, but because I just did not know how this could of happened to someone so sweet. I remember looking at her and thinking she is so brave and I am going to fall to pieces any moment!

Because of the trauma that I felt the children were going through, I told her to not pull the children out. I asked that she allow them to finish at least the year because I thought that dance could be an outlet for them. No charge! It was what I felt I needed to do, and I am very certain that there are many other teachers that have done or would do the same. We are attached to our students like they are part of our family.

This mother, someone I had known many years and way before either of us had any children, looked at me and said only if I can pay for it by helping some way. She became our new janitor that day.

But more than that she became a hero that day. You see, this is not about a poor mom stuck with kids, no job and no husband. This is about a woman that took on the challenge of life! She had the ability to change things and she did.

She got a job. Actually two jobs in fast food restaurants (plus still doing janitorial for her children's classes) because she had no work history for others to hire her. Marrying her high school sweetheart and raising kids was her job for years. But, shed no tears because from two fast food establishments, she eventually made it to some college and then to the director of one of the best daycares in the area. Still raising kids.

But that is not the end of the story. She continued to work at raising her beautiful children, they continued over the years to take classes from us. She eventually continued her education and completed her degree. Children moved on to college. Now they are married. A grandparent!

In between she did re-marry for a time and took care of her own parents. Eventually, she moved away to be closer to her children and grandchildren.

I wonder at times if she realized what a great story she has created for her children to hand down to her grandchildren? I wonder if she ever knew that others sat back and wondered how she ever did it. I wonder if anyone ever realized how much power this one quiet woman really has.  I wonder if she knew that she is some ones hero. Probably not, because some of the best heroes never even knew that they were changing the game of life because they did not know someone was watching.

So maybe today we should all watch and notice unmentioned heroes. And instead of being quiet about it, maybe we should speak up and tell them, "You know, I've learned a lot from you. Thanks for being my hero today."

Here is to unmentioned heroes. See if you can find a few to learn from too. Now take THAT Batman! ((POW))!!

Mean Mary James To Visit Academy of Fine Arts Students

In case you have not heard, Mean Mary James will be visiting our school on March 28th to have a meet and great with our students. All students, no matter what department they are in at our school, can attend this event at 6:00 pm in our Woodward location.


The purpose of the meet and greet is to allow our students to meet a professional performer! Mary James is a musician and vocalist with a great story that has led her to where she is today. Follow and accident that damaged her vocal chords, Mary James knows that it takes a love for what you do, dedication and commitment, and never giving up when times seem hard to achieve your dream.


Although she performs under the name of Mean Mary James, there is absolutely nothing mean about her but her fast banjo picking! Mary plays eleven different instruments, has co-authored books and written her own music and songs.


After the meet and greet, Mary will be forming a small concert venue at the Josie Adams Cultural Center. We hope that all our parents will want to attend with family and friends since this is also a fundraiser to purchase more equipment for our school. the concert starts at 7:00 pm with food and beverages first. (Students can stay at our school for a movie, pizza and popcorn for only $10 per person! Now that is a cheap baby sitter!)


We think that you will be amazed by Mary James journey and her music and hope you will plan to purchase tickets and attend.

Why A Dance Education Versus Just Learning A Dance?

There are many different types of dance studios around our nation. And rightly so because not all families are looking for the same thing when it comes to placing their children in a dance program.

There are the "activity" studios. These are the ones that can come up with great activity style classes that only run six to eight weeks at a time. Low commitment and made for fun and to give the parents a break from their children once in awhile.

There are "lets learn a dance" studios that start teaching a dance at the beginning of the season and take the entire season to complete or polish it.

There are "competition" studios where every class in the studio, with maybe the exception of the baby classes, compete. That is their goal and target. Attend competitions.

There are the studios that see what they do as an education. They not only teach dances, but actually how to dance. Techniques is important and impressed upon their students because they want to be sure if these students do one day decide to audition for a university dance department or for a professional show, that they have the skills and training to make it.

Take these four types of studios and you will see even a different blend. Such as the Educational Studio that understands and can meet the educational side with still allowing a few students to compete. Why only a few? Because they are hand selected and not open called for auditions. These hand selected students are ones that parents understand that this is more that just getting on a stage and getting a trophy. It is about performance value and learning about performance.

Then there is the studio that the competitions are actually an activity because not enough time is spent on technique, but instead tricks to make the audience yell out for them (have you ever experience yelling "get it girl" during a Nutcracker performance by a professional company?). Although entertaining, these dancers seldom go on to higher levels of dance opportunities, and even if they tried they are generally turned away.

Dance is an education of movement, correct sequences and technique in execution. It should be fun or your child will not enjoy it. It should be measurable or your child will not know if they are advancing or not. It should be balanced with technique and learning a dance.

Yes, dance is an education. So is performance. An education that can take them to as high as they want to achieve, if they have the right start.

Woodward Academy of Fine Arts Students To Get Private Meeting With International Touring Artist on March 28th!

We have a real treat for our students in our Woodward location! On March 28th we are bringing in an international touring artist of guitar, banjo and violin to speak to our students about being a professional musician, author and actor!

This person (name to be announced soon!) plays eleven different music instruments and started co-writing music by the age of 5 yrs. The artist could read music before they could even read a book!

Known internationally for lightning-fast fingers, haunting vocals, and intricate story songs, this artist travels the genres of folk-rock, bluegrass, and blues with banjo, fiddle, and guitar. Anything from ghost pirates to demon guitars could romp through a the show!

Not only will there be the private time talking with just our students, but there will also be a small house concert that evening for adults at the Josie Adams Cultural Center! Ticket prices to be announced.

Be sure to stay tuned to find out more and mark your calendars for March 28th!

Move-N-Learn Academy Will Have Some NEW CHANGES for Fall 2014

We have had our preschool since 1986 and every few years, we update the program to offer the best preschool and pre-k academic program in our area. It is one of those years again! And so, we will be updating some of the standards as well as looking at the curriculum.

What will not change is that with us, your child will have the opportunity for dance, tumbling, art, computers and more. Our standards will not be lowered, but raised higher. Higher means that your child is more than prepared for their Kindergarten year.

One of the changes is that your child will not have to leave us when they are ready for Kindergarten. They will be able to stay in an environment that they love and feel secure in. Their academics will be through Oklahoma Connections Academy, but their learning coaches will be our staff.

Be are  excited about this change and are looking towards the future for our students.

So Why Are We Promoting Oklahoma Connections Academy Public Virtual School?

When you blend the public virtual school ( which is free to students residing in Oklahoma) with our performing and fine arts instruction, and outsource the Learning Coach position to our teachers, you now have a PRIVATE PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL right here! And at the minimal cost of a private performing arts school.

Public virtual school also allows you to go back to a brick and mortar school, if you find out that this type of schooling, although cutting edge, is not for you! It really is all about parents HAVING CHOICES in the education of their children instead of being told where they have to attend school (such a neighborhood schools).

Are we against brick and mortar schools or unhappy with local public schools? No, we are not. The majority of adults in the US are the results of a public brick and mortar school. Including myself. And I think I have done well with my life.

We are for the freedom of CHOICE that if what we are doing for our children is not working, we have the right to easily make a change. That we have a choice to in the level of curriculum, electives, teacher qualifications, etc.

So why are we promoting Oklahoma Connections Academy Public Virtual School? 

1.Because of the standards that they are setting in our state for virtual schools. 

2.Because of their partnership with the e-Learning with Julliard for music (and hopefully theater and dance will be able to be added later). 

3.Because of the many different field trips. 

4.Because of the clubs offered. 

5.Because of the commitment of the Principal and Asst Principal of Oklahoma Connections Academy to their students.

6.Because it is a curriculum that is challenging,

7.Because of the Sports Academy

8.Because of the Performing Arts Academy

9.Because a great majority of their teachers hold a masters degree

10. Because it was approved as a statewide virtual charter school for the 2014-15 school year by the newly-created Statewide Virtual Charter School Board. (The board voted unanimously to approve the school during its monthly meeting on January 14.) Oklahoma Connections Academy was the only virtual school applicant approved in the state's first such decision round.

11. Because it fits for us and for a lot of the families we know

Open transfer and registration is now happening! The process is easy. You can even attend an online information event (just in case you missed the special event that we set up just for our students and families to attend this week) by going to http://www.connectionsacademy.com/oklahoma-virtual-school/events.aspx 

Don't take our word for it. Do your own investigation. Oklahoma Connections Academy is not about homeschooling. It is not homeschooling. It is schooling our children and grandchildren for the future.

We hope to have you in our first class of our PRIVATE PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL the fall of 2014!

We saw the Future Tonight and The Future Is Bright!

Tonight was the meeting for parents to attend and ask questions of the Assistant Principal of Oklahoma Connections Academy. Though there was low attendance, it was a very insightful meeting! Tonight we saw the future. Here is some of the things we learned and want to pass on to you!

Virtual Public School in Oklahoma is FREE online schooling. The school operates under a statewide virtual public school state board of education (just like the State Board of Education that is over brick and mortar schools). The virtual school does have to follow all state guidelines. There are a set number of hours of school with vacation days scheduled. There are three major virtual public schools in Oklahoma, K-12.com, Epic and Oklahoma Connections.

Now the differences. The difference in brick and mortar and the virtual public school are many. The number one factor we found interesting is that some students are able to complete their full day of studies in half the time a child spends in a brick and mortar school. Students are also allowed to work ahead of the schedule in the virtual school, banking hours of study, for those days that they do not work on their studies. Thus allowing your child to actually follow some of their passions such as personal coaching in their sports, master classes in dance and music, vacationing with grandparents.

It was easy to see that students enrolled in Oklahoma Connections Academy can become a specialist in their field prior to even high school  graduation! (The assistant principals daughter left brick and mortar last year and now attends OKCA AND is in a nursing program at a Vo-Tech. Thus allowing her to progress past others her age and go into college with hours already accomplished for her nursing degree!) Oklahoma Connections Academy offers electives in entrepreneurship, technology and engineering. Students can learn website and virtual game design even before leaving high school.

Teachers are more accessible with OKCA. You do not have to wait for a note to come home or receive a call from your child's teachers. The grade book is available 24/7 and the entire school year is planned and mapped out for your child's success. There are parent teacher conferences to work as a team in educating your child.

What a bout socialization? OMGoodness! There are approximately 2 field trips a month that your child can participate in. A large outing at Frontier City is planned in May at the end of this school year. There are clubs to participate in and much more. Couple all of that with your child's local music lessons, dance lessons, gymnastics, cheerleading and local sports leagues and you will realize that there are plenty of opportunities for  socialization.

But what about sports like football?? Well, we were given information on that too! Did you know that some OKCA virtual public school children are actually playing sports at their area public brick and mortar schools? That is right! They are still playing school sports! (you really need to talk to us about this)

Foreign language? Oh yes! How about Spanish and Chinese? Spanish fits our area of the US and Chinese is the fastest growing global language !

Music? OKCA has partnered with Julliard with Julliard's e-learning in music! Outstanding! Your child will be better prepared for college in music!

How about life skills that can lead to careers? Yes they still offer home ec style of classes such as baking, cooking and even an auto mechanics course for those that have an interest.

The biggest aha moment has to be that you and your child have an opportunity to design an education that can work for your child and with your child's interest in mind. No boring, out dated classes to have to drag through with low interest. They even have peer tutoring sessions!(sounds a bit like college, right?)

We even went a bit further and asked about special services for students such as learning disabilities and college advisement. We were informed that they have people already in place for this. I asked about a speech therapist and they gave me the name of the person.

So here is our conclusion from tonight's meeting. Oklahoma Connections Academy ( and our energy, ideas and programs) can give your child everything they can get in the public brick and mortar. But they can give more. Much more. 

Your child can enjoy school, like they should. No bullying, no school drama and gossip, no fear of failure. School should be fun and enlightening. It should challenge your child and cause them to dream of a bright future. School should be the first step towards your child's future (and it is never too early to start planning for that!).

OKCA allows a child to be challenged so that they can grow. OKCA's schedule and lesson plans work towards an education with plans for college admittance. OKCA's well planned year allows for more family time and time for your child to find their passions.

Do we think Virtual Public School is the near future? It is already here and has been for some years in in other areas of the United States. Colleges have been offering online courses for graduation for adults for several years now. Virtual training and education is not new.

Educating our children as a country for decades has offered public education, private education. home schooling, tutor training and more. For generations, elite athletes in high school and college have used tutors and other alternatives for education. This is how Olympians are made.

Child actors and musicians on Broadway and in Hollywood have also received their education from those sources in the past. This is how movie stars and the Hannah Montana's of television and music were created.

It is just this day and age, the system of delivering the education has changed. No longer are there tutors at the gymnastics gym, but now through the computer. No longer does an athlete, musician, actor or just a very mobile family have to carry a huge amount of books to travel and continue the studies. No longer does a family have to beg the school district to permission for their child to be allowed to vacation in February instead of the summer.

OKCA has 740 students this year. Some are athletes that need more time to spend on their sport. Some are students that need a bigger challenge. Some are actors that go to Hollywood to film pilots for television. A very few are those with special education or health needs. Most are just average kids enjoying the freedom from bullying, school violence, school drama and more.

In any case, we have concluded that Oklahoma Connections Academy is still a school district (even though virtual) that we will recommend to our family, friends and students of our performing arts schools. We have seen the future and it shines very bright.

**We have six bags with registration information, class information and a t-shirt to the first 6 families that comes in and says, I want my child to attend OKCA this next year. Registration is now open until May. Once registering for OKCA, then contact us as to how we can offer Learning Coach Services for the success of your child! You do not have to be the learning coach for your child in virtual public school. You can outsource it! Call us now at 580-256-3262 or 580-747-4799

Public School in a Private Setting May Be The Key

If you or your child are still struggling with public school issues, a public school education in a private setting may be the answer for your child's success.  No matter if you are tired of bullying, the lack of time for family, over crowding of classes and lack of the teachers time for your child, or just want your child to be challenged more, take a look at our public school in a private setting opportunity this Tuesday night at 6:30 pm. The meeting will be held at the Hampton Inn on Williams Ave. 

This informational meeting will allow you to ask questions about curriculum and other questions concerning your child's education. A Representative of Oklahoma Connections Academy ( we are thinking it will be Tammy Shepherd, Principal of OKCA) will be there to address any concerns or questions concerning virtual public school. 

We hope to see you there. 

You Are Invited To Learn More!

You are invited to an informational meeting! No obligation, just attend to learn more! Back to top FEBRUARY 25th Time 6:30 pm Location Hampton Inn Woodward OK OKLAHOMA CONNECTIONS ACADEMY A VIRTUAL OKLAHOMA PUBLIC SCHOOL and ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS How the two can blend to create a great educational opportunity for your child's success! Listen, ask questions and find out about a different learning environment for your child. It is still public school but in a private setting! Registration for Fall 2014 Starts Soon so now is the time to learn more about this cutting edge method of school that can allow more family time or more time for your child to spend on their passions! Although this is a meeting we have set up for our families at Academy of Fine Arts, we encourage the public to attend as well. Bring a friend or family member that has an interest!

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What is Oklahoma Connections Academy? Back to top Oklahoma Connections Academy is a public virtual school available to all Oklahoma students K-12. It is a public school that can be done at home or on the go. All that is needed most of the time is a laptop, internet connection and the books they send to you to work from. Is it home school? Well it can be, but we think a bit better because the curriculum is set and you are guided by state certified teachers that are assigned to your child. A parent or grandparent takes online training to assist the child in their daily studies. But don't dismiss it because you don't or can't be a stay at home parent to home school. Because we have a solution to that! You can outsource the Learning Coach position to us! We encourage you to go to the website for Oklahoma Connections Academy and learn more! Then come to the meeting to ask the hard questions! And keep asking questions until you get the answers that you need to make a decision about the future of your childs education. If virtual public school does not work for you, you can always go back to a brick and mortar public school! www.connectionsacademy.com/OKCA

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Why Do We Like Oklahoma Connections Academy? Back to top First of all, children in the arts and athletics have been educated for generations through similar methods....then, it was called a tutor. Gymnastic gyms, dance schools, Broadway, Hollywood, and others have educated children while they worked on their passions. This is really nothing new.What is new is the delivery system! The internet and a laptop. We feel that this is a cutting edge situation and will eventually be the future of how all children will or could be educated. Those starting now, are getting a head start. Technology has changed everything in the world. Adults have been taking online courses for years now to start or complete a degree. It may all seem new, but the technology has been there for years. When looking over their courses and classes for different grades, we were amazed. There is so much more than what a brick and mortar public school can offer! Students and families will be able to tailor their child's education towards what the child enjoys and loves. We like the fact that OKCE is progressive and encourages children to aspire to higher levels. Connections Academy also has a partnership with Julliard in the e-music program! How many schools offer that? Children in virtual school will be tomorrows computer experts. Since it is the method of conducting and recording their progress, they have an opportunity to progress fast than those that get on a computer only a couple times a week at school or to play games on the weekends at home. We also like that they have cubs and parent events to connect families in Oklahoma that are also in OKCA. This means that they also believe that a complete education is also about being with like minded people. We think that any child that registers with OKCA will be challenged. This is not a sit back and let the computer do the work situation. We believe that sudents in a virtual school such as OKCA will be trained early to be a forward thinking adult. This is just a few reasons why we like OKCA and why we have put together this meeting for you to learn more. Invite a friend to come with you. Bring a list of questions! We want you to come and then let us know if you see the future like we do. See you at the meeting!

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Back to top Click here to learn more about Oklahoma Connection Academy

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Back to top College Bound Students Find Success

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Back to top Find out more about OKCA

I Can't Get Her/Him To Practice

Well, of course you cannot! No child ever wants to do what their parent's want them to. Right?
As director of Academy of Fine Arts, I do understand you wanting them to practice their art of music, dance, gymnastics, etc. a good thirty minutes a day. But believe me, as a parent also, it just is not going to happen!

At least it is not going to happen at the day, time and moment you want it to. I too struggled with the idea that my child (or even grandchild) should be working out every day and practicing what we are paying for. Even though I own the school, I still had to pay the teachers that my family members took under and wanted to be sure that I got what I was paying for! Reasonable, right? Not really when you stop and think about it.

I finally realized that I was not paying tuition for my child to practice. I was actually paying tuition for my child to "take a weekly lesson" and that practicing at home just did not fit into the mix at all.
So this meant that I had to re-focus my intentions and re-direct my children (and grandchildren) to a whole new idea of what practice might be.

Ever wonder why on weekends that your child "plays school" when they have already been in school all week?  You would think they would be tired of school, right? When in fact what they are doing is not practicing their school work, but actually putting what they had learned during the week into action. Playing school is not work, it is a fun project!

So why not allow practicing dance or music, stretching for gymnastics or writing choreography and theatrical movements be play? Why not allow them to take what they have learned from class this week and teach it back to imaginary friends, dolls, stuffed animals or siblings?

I can remember parents in the past asking how my children became accomplished dancers, gymnasts, athletes and musicians (yes they all played instruments as well as danced, tumbled, played softball and basketball and even  cheered). How many hours a week did I make them practice? My answer? ZERO. Not even when they were in the high school band. Why? Because I did not want to push them towards "I want to give up".

Instead of practicing at home, we played. They played "dance teacher", "gymnastic coach", " cheer coach". "music teacher", "band director" to their siblings, friends from across the street, their dolls and stuffed bears, and yes even to family members that were over for dinner or adult friends that had stopped by.

Every weekend was a time that they worked on putting together a new performance, The performance was usually unveiled on Sunday evenings in its full array of music, movement, singing and playing instruments! I actually miss those performances. They were creative, colorful, cooperative and insightful. They changed with the seasons. They changed with the weather. But they were all wonderful!

There was no scheduled practice time at home. Ever. But once in high school and having a playing test the next week, the instruments did come out. They came out for practice on their own, because now there was something at risk. Grades.

Once in Junior and Senior High, you would find them stretching and working out on their own. Why? Because now there was competition dance team, cheer squad, basketball team, softball team and skills they wanted to get down for class.

Practice is something that I believe a child has to grow into. Before age 12 years, it is best to leave it up to play. After all, all of the current personal development coaches say, "If you want to become an expert at something, first learn to teach it."

So let the young child teach what they have learned to other, imaginary and real. And keep the classes there on a weekly basis so that they can teach something new each week. Let them grow into their art methods. Let them grow as a teacher. Let them grow into a wonderful, accomplished sons and daughters. Let them play.

Oklahoma Virtual Public School in a Private Setting

Kids Say The Funniest Things

This week in class, one of our students looked up to the dance teacher and asked, "Do you wash your black leotard and jazz pants every night so that you can teach in them the next day?" "Well no, I actually have several black leotards and pants to select from", said the teacher. "Really?????" was the reply from the very serious young student. "You really only have black clothes in your closet? You really need some color with that!" Sometimes our students say the funniest things, and yet can be so honest with their opinions. What the student does not understand is that a dance teacher's life is filled with a lot of color! Rosy cheeks and pearly white teeth in a large smile that meet the teacher as each student comes through the door for their lessons. Pink skirts and tutus twirling in the air, red hip hop sneakers and lime green pants dancing on the floor, sequined dance bags that line the floor, and glitter! Glitter every where! A teacher of dance hears music and immediately sees movement and color! We see color in the sunrise and the sunset that gives us inspiration to choreograph great performances. Color is everywhere when looking through hundreds of books for costumes for the spring performance. Yes, dance teachers have a lot of color in their lives. So much so that we never notice that when we wear our traditional"uniform" to teach classes that others would think that there is no color in our lives. Actually there is so much color in a dance teachers life that we sometimes find glitter in the strangest places. Sometimes there is even glitter in the meatloaf at home, but by mistake. Keep smiling!