Several years ago, second grade gifted and dance teacher, Christina Herrera, accepted the challenge to form a dance troupe at Spanish Lake Elementary (SLE). In a short period of time, the troupe flourished and grew. The students participating learned how to stay strong under stress, as they learned to express their emotions through movement.
They learned a variety of dance styles, and strengthened their bodies. The girls in the dance troupe feel they have gained self-confidence, a trust for each other, and most of all, a respect for others and themselves. The girls and their parents have created strong bonds with each other through dance activities.
After a two-day selection process, outside judges select approximately 30 students in third through fifth grade to be a member of the SLE Rubies Dance Team. In addition to performing at SLE events, The Rubies have performed at the Country Club Middle Holiday Show, the American Feeder Pattern Expo and Reading Under The Stars.
The Rubies returned to Walt Disney World for a second consecutive year to participate in the Disney Performing Arts Showcase in Disney Springs.
This year, the troupe will present a new tradition, Rubies Dance Showcase which will take place at SLE on May 17.