In cities across the country, public schools are failing our children. Lack of funding, an increased emphasis on standardized test, and a general sentiment that "the arts are frivolous" have led to a dramatic cutback of art in our schools. The heart and soul of our schools are under attack, and this is undoubtedly a contributing factor in the soaring dropout rates.

It's easy to point a finger and blame policy-makers for the current situation. It's another to take action and be part of finding a solution. In Springfield, Massachusetts, George and Alyson Gouzounis are doing what they can to stem the tide. In the fall of 2005, they initiated an innovative dance program designed to bring the arts back into the schools. Their program, Over the Top, teaches ballroom dancing to over one thousand fifth graders in seven public schools across the city. The students learn steps from the merengue and the mambo to the fox trot and swing. Students enjoy the exercise and the challenge of learning new dances. Lessons in dance also include mini-lessons in history, music, math, and even courtesy.

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"This film does such a wonderful job of documenting all sides of this terrific ballroom dance program. The interviews with students, teachers, principals, parents, volunteers and, of course, the couple who started the whole program reveal how participation in the arts has the potential to transform a life, and many lives. Children learn how to learn in ways that complement learning in other areas and, in fact, perhaps lead the learning process.

A number of years ago, M.I.T. started a theater program and began to add arts to its curriculum because the school wanted its graduates to not only be brilliant research scientists, but to think more creatively and to take leadership. This top institution of higher education recognized that without training in the arts, its students would be less than fully educated.

This is a film that needs to be seen by principals, funders and legislators because it presents evidence of what those of us in the arts already know: education and participation in the arts is not ancillary to education, it is fundamental to education."
Lesley Farlow, Associate Professor of Theater and Dance, Trinity College

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