“It is difficult [to] improve technique and performance skills without guidance and corrections,” they wrote.
“As dedicated dancers, we have been forced to seek and pay for outside training because we receive few to no corrections.”
Thompson wrote that concert pieces will only be rehearsed and performed after school now, rather than during school day classes, and students will work on technique daily.
She is also developing uniformity in assignments.
The students said they would welcome any additional instructors. Thompson confirmed that more guest teachers and choreographers will work with the classes and on the upcoming dance concert, “Moulin Rouge;” Thompson will continue teaching the students one or two days a week.
“The addition of guest choreographers was a direct request from students and parents, and very much in line with what has happened in the past,” Austin said.
Thompson discontinued choreographing the fall musical, “Urinetown,” when she realized she needed time to work on her own program, Austin said.
“It just didn’t make sense for a brand new teacher to take on both shows at the same time,” Austin said. Austin said no changes to Thompson’s job requirements have been made since she took on the role.
