High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Dance

Dance

MCPS Regional Dance programs provide students with a strong foundation in choreography and technique, along with specialized experiences across a variety of dance styles. Through rigorous training and authentic, real‑world dance experiences, students are prepared for postsecondary opportunities in the arts—whether pursuing a college degree or entering the arts workforce directly after high school.

The program supports artistic growth, professional readiness, and creative expression by integrating performance, choreography, and career‑focused learning within a comprehensive arts pathway.

Core Experiences

MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal
Earn an optional industry recognized credential (IRC) in business marketing or entrepreneurship
Complte a dance capstone project
Career experiences with MCPS partners

Program Goals

Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills in the Arts
Students in the MCPS Regional Dance programs will develop strong technical skills resulting in audition ready performers.
Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience in the Arts
Have the opportunity to earn industry recognized credentials related to business marketing or entrepreneurship while designing and implementing a capstone project related to their chosen career focus with support from MCPS partners.
Foster College, Career, and/or Community Pathways in the Arts
Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in the arts by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and engagement with industry professionals equipping them to complete the MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal requirements.

Application & Locations

Application: Criteria-based application

Schools:

Region 1: Northwood
Region 2: Blake
Region 3: Woodward
Region 4: Richard Montgomery
Region 5: Watkins Mill
Region 6: Seneca Valley

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Dance Program. Cells in purple are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grades 6–8	Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12
Dance experience in Middle School preferred
	Regional Dance level 1	Regional Dance level 2	Regional Dance level 3 (Double Period) or Dual Enrollment Course (2 courses, one per semester) Students propose capstone	Regional Dance level 4 (Double Period) Capstone Project
	Ballet level 1	Choreography 1 or Technology Education or Level 1 Business/Management Course		Regional Dance level 4 (Double Period) Capstone Project
	English	English	English	English
	Math	Math	Math	Math
	Science	Science	Science	Elective (PE or Health)
	Social Studies	Social Studies	Social Studies	Elective (PE or Health)
	World Language	World Language	Choreography 2 or World Language or Level 2 Business/Management Course	Dance Company or World Language or Level 3 Business/Management Course

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Dance Program and earn the related certificate:

Dance Core
- Dance 1 & 2
- Ballet 1
- Dance 4 with Capstone Project
Focus
- Dance
  - Choreography 1 & 2 (or Choreography 1 + Technology Education credit if needed)
  - Dance Company
- Fine Arts Business/Management
  - CTE Pathway courses 1, 2 & 3 of
  - CTE Pathway courses 1 & 2 plus work-based learning
- World Language
  - Completion of 4 credits in world language plus Seal of Biliteracy