By Piper Figallo
Dr. Amanda Richard, the principal of Redwood High School expresses her thoughts and opinions on the impact of the Redwood dance program.
Richard talks about the importance of dance and why it is necessary to have a dance program here at Redwood.
Richard says, “Well, dance is really important because it gives another elective option to students that are interested and enjoy dance. And it’s an art, however, it’s different than the traditional two-dimensional or three-dimensional art. It’s a different way of expressing yourself, and it’s an active class, so you can also get exercise while you’re doing it.”
Richard also adds, “Dance is a way to connect people to different cultures and to different ethnicities, and that can all be expressed through dance. I feel like our programs here at Redwood are really good with that because we have so many different types of dance classes to offer.”
When Richard was asked if she finds anything interesting or unique about the Redwood dance program, Richard says, “Redwood High School actually offers more dance classes than any other high school in Visalia because we have two full-time dance teachers. So that is unique.”
Richard adds, “The really unique thing is that we have the international dance class here, and boys are in the class. Traditionally district-wide, you don’t see a lot of young men in the dance classes for whatever reason, there’s like this stigma that it’s for girls, but that’s not the case.”
Dr. Richard was asked how Redwood Dance has impacted her. Richard says,“I understand how much hard work goes into running a program, so I feel like it’s really impacting our school, which really drives the culture here at Redwood.”
Richard goes on to say, “I feel like because the culture is so strong here, obviously that affects me because it just makes my job so much more fun.”
Piper Figallo
Piper Figallo '24 is a student at Redwood High school. Piper is dedicated to using her writing skills to produce great stories for the Redwood Gigantea.
Tags: arts and entertainment, redwood dance, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, rhs, visalia ca