Hilton Head Highland High School proposes new honors dance curriculum

The Beaufort County Board of Education Academics Committee convened on May 16, 2025, to discuss the approval of an honors course application for a dance class at Hilton Head Highland High School. This meeting highlighted the growing need for advanced coursework as students engage in diverse performance areas.

The proposed honors dance course aims to meet state educational standards while providing an elevated level of rigor and complexity. The application includes a comprehensive syllabus that outlines course content, instructional methods, and assessment strategies, all aligned with South Carolina's Visual and Performing Arts standards. The course will require students to develop portfolios that reflect their learning and skills, incorporating various topics and demonstrating their understanding of world-class knowledge and skills.

Key components of the course include project-based learning, where students will choreograph dances under the guidance of professional choreographers. This hands-on approach is designed to deepen students' understanding of choreography and performance. Additionally, the course will implement formative and summative assessments, encouraging self-reflection and peer evaluations to foster continuous improvement.

The committee emphasized the importance of this course in supporting a progressive educational pathway, noting that elementary and middle schools are already laying the groundwork for advanced dance education. The introduction of this honors course not only enhances the curriculum but also prepares students for potential careers in the performing arts.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment of the Beaufort County School District to provide high-quality educational opportunities that challenge students and prepare them for future success. The next steps will involve a formal review and approval process by the board to finalize the implementation of the honors dance course.