DNG Students

Shaped by national research, Dance – The Next Generation (DNG) begins in third grade and continues through grade twelve or graduation from high school. Each year, DNG enrolls between 35 and 45 new students in Grade 3, adding to an enrollment of approximately 160 students from Grade 3 to 12 annually. The average student will remain in the program for 10 years. Through an audition process, DNG staff work with teachers and school administrators to identify students who are “at risk” of dropping out of school. Nearly 100% of the students are from Title I schools.

MEASURING SUCCESS

DNG has an outstanding success rate. Over 1,100 students have been through the DNG program since its inception. Additionally, over 150 students have completed the program and have also graduated from high school, some even enlisting for military service, most having gone on to college. All DNG students who complete the program and graduate from high school are eligible to apply for dedicated DNG scholarships at The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee or State College of Florida. DNG alumni today include doctors, historians, teachers, a US Marine, and professional dancers.

DNG AND VIRTUAL LEARNING

During the 2020-2021 season, due to COVID-19, Dance – The Next Generation did not open the program to new students. Current attendees are participating in a modified program to meet the health and safety concerns presented by COVID-19. 63 students in grades 4-8 are attending the program virtually. Tablets were provided to each participant, giving them the ability to connect from the safety of their homes. 22 students in grades 9-12 are participating in a hybrid model including in-person dance classes in the studio and virtual enrichment on their tablets at home. The program plans to welcome new students again in the fall of 2021.