Putting dance education on the floor

Sisters Middle School students had a chance to strut their stuff at their 7th- and 8th-grade semi-formal "The GIG" on Friday, May 20. GIG stands for girls ask guys, guys ask girls, girls ask girls, guys ask guys, groups invite groups... basically, students don't need to feel like they have to have a date.

The middle school leadership class led by teacher Becky Aylor planned and executed the event held at the school. Students that didn't have the opportunity to go home before the dance were treated to the "Glam Zone" for the ladies and the "ESPNish Zone" for the guys.

"When the GIG started, I created the ZONE idea to keep students at school where community members can help them be confident and shine," said Aylor. "If the student takes the bus home, they often have no way to come back to the school to be part of the GIG; the ZONES keep them safe at school, and provide them with a snack and some great interaction with folks that show they care about them."

Aylor said this year was the easiest it's been to get volunteers for the event. Community members helped with hair, make-up and nails as well as helping the guys get ready (learning how to tie a tie and iron their own shirts), serving food in concessions, and acting as chaperones. Dancing was not required.

"I did hair for a total of nine young women," said local hair stylist Tami Jones. "I volunteered to help because this is my youngest son's last year in middle school. This is my way to support the school and help out."

"I am so thankful to live in this community," says Aylor. "A community that supports our youth not only in their finances, but also with their time and talent."

Dressed in dresses and skirts for the ladies and shirts and ties (some even in bowties!), students made their way to the commons. They were nervous in the beginning but quickly opened up and enjoyed dancing and having fun together. Singing "Let It Go" as a group and dancing the Macarena were the biggest hits of the evening.

Students loved the whole evening and couldn't stop raving about the fun they had.

"I loved dancing!" said 8th-grader Hudson Jones. "I loved the cha-cha line!"

Lala Debari said, "I loved dancing with my friends, being in the moment and letting it all go."