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5/14/2011 6:00:00 AMAt Marion-Sterling dancing is a step to respect and self-confidence

May 14, 2011, 6:00 AM     

Video, photos and story by Peggy Turbett, The Plain Dealer

CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO of Marion-Sterling fifth graders being taught to dance by Claire Russell, artist with Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio.

CLICK HERE TO SEE GALLERY OF 17 PHOTOS.

PHOTO  RIGHT: Ta'Kevia McConell and Dennis McNight represent Marion-Sterling School in performing the Swing in the Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio semi final competition May 7, 2011, at Cuyahoga Community College.

Go here for competition results:

Rhythmic counts transform the fifth-grade classroom at Marion-Sterling Elementary School into a bustling dance studio.

"In to the north, out to the south," intones dance instructor Claire Russell. "In to the north, out to the south," repeat the students. "You shake it!"

Now in its third year, the Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio program reaches 19 schools, 56 classrooms and 1,400 children. In 10 weeks, children learn the finesse of the fox trot and the flight of the swing. But "cor-taying" for the tango and "combing your hair" for the rumba aren't the only steps to master.

When seven Northeast Ohio schools compete in the Colors of the Rainbow Grand Finals at the Ohio Theatre Saturday, the teams will display some fancy footwork. They will also escort their partners with smiles, self-confidence and respect honed from hard work, journal writings and cooperation.

1st PHOTO BELOW:   a'Nasha Gavin, adds a pink bolero to her party ensemble as Champrice Farris, right, checks on the fit Wednesday, March 23, 2011. The fifth graders selected dresses, donated by students at Laurel School in Shaker Heights, for the Marion Sterling ballroom dance programs.

2nd PHOTO BELOW: Marion-Sterling's Blue Team cheers when they learn all participants in the semi finals will receive scholarships to Cuyahoga Community College's summer arts program. From left,Keylonda Coker, La'Shea Mitchell, Lanasha Gavin, Lynzhoniah Swain, Jordan Hunter, and Lakelle Lang, Saturday, May 7, 2011.