The meeting opened with several students from the dance program taking the stage to present their pieces. Each performance was unique, with the students discussing the inspiration behind their dances and the challenges they faced during the creative process. The audience’s response was positive, offering applause and showing appreciation for the effort and passion displayed by the young dancers.

One of the standout performances was by a student identified as Meline Donner, who performed a piece titled “You Don’t Own Me.” Donner’s dance was a powerful statement on women’s empowerment and served as a striking visual representation of the theme. Another student, New Cabbe, brought a different flavor to the meeting with his piece “Those Feels Again,” which aimed to provide attendees with a taste of R&B and soul music, drawing from personal experiences and musical influences.

Zaris Froso’s performance, “Old Soul,” was directly inspired by her mother’s love for old R&B music, connecting the past with the present through dance. This touching tribute was among the several acts that highlighted the diverse range of inspirations that motivated these students to express themselves through movement.

Further into the meeting, another student, Michen, presented a choreographed piece entitled “One and Six.” The dance was rooted in the troubling statistics surrounding the exploitation and harassment of women, expressing a call to break down barriers and to recognize the unique experiences of each individual. Michen’s message was a sobering reminder of the issues faced by women, emphasizing the need for awareness and support.

The meeting also included performances of well-known songs such as “Hallelujah” and “Home,” as well as a rap performance that added to the evening’s musical diversity. The public comments section of the meeting offered further depth, with discussions focusing on the specific challenges faced by girls in dance, including the type of music used and societal expectations.

The Edison School Board meeting served as an important platform for students to voice their perspectives and experiences through the universal language of dance. Not only did the performances provide entertainment, but they also sparked conversations about issues such as gender empowerment, the impact of music and culture, and the personal growth that can come from artistic expression.