Modazz is a dance group at Chandler High that show pride in their interests, while also being passionate about what they love. Just like dancing, everyone is at their own pace.
“If everybody knew how to dance, I wouldn’t have a job,” said CHS dance teacher Tiffany White. Ms. White has been teaching dance ever since she was fourteen. She continued teaching dance and has been for 12 years, 5 of those being at Chandler High. Ms. White is also the instructor for the Modazz dance group at Chandler High. She said, “I love this school more than any other school I’ve ever been at, I don’t plan to leave.” The spirit that Ms.White provides to Chandler High is evident; the community wouldn’t be the same without her. She guides aspiring dancers towards self-expression, discipline, and personal growth. More than just a teacher, she is a mentor, a motivator, and a source of inspiration.
With growth, dance also takes time, so preparation before a performance is crucial. Ms. White begins working with each year’s Modazz dancers four weeks after the school year begins with reviewing, going over technique, and practicing. Modazz dancers have a lot of freedom to choreograph their own dances and choose their own music, with guidance from Ms. White, who helps the dancers and gives suggestions or tips if needed.
Mia Herrera is a senior and in her first year of being in the Modazz dance group. She also coaches dance and is looking forward to continuing with dancing after high school. “I definitely plan on it, I love performing.” Being in Modazz for the first time, Mia Herrera expresses that it has improved her communication skills, time management, and productivity. Getting in a dance group may feel intimidating to some, but it encourages self-expression and collaboration the most. Mia said, “I struggled with being able to communicate because of so many dances and with there being ten of us, communicating in good ways and learning how to not be too harsh or not be too nice.” Modazz is important not only because of how active you can be physically, but also because it impacts you mentally in so many good ways as well. The students in Modazz found that connection to dance and were able to discover that same confidence and passion over time.
