For the past several years, the DEA Educational Foundation Youth Dance Program has brought the joy and power of dance to elementary school students in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This spring, the program wrapped up another successful session at Barger Academy of Fine Arts, where students in grades 3–5 met twice a week for 10-weeks to learn modern and hip hop.

Led by longtime teaching artist Felicion McMillon, the program has become a beloved staple at Barger Academy since it first launched in 2021. Each session serves around 20–25 students, giving them the opportunity not only to learn dance technique but also to build confidence, discipline, and connection.

The program culminated in a special performance during the school’s year-end showcase on the evening of May 15, where students proudly demonstrated what they had been working on throughout the spring.

McMillon agrees that dance is about much more than just movement. “I teach dance and life lessons every day,” she said. “This program makes me feel seen. DEAEF gets it. Arts education is essential for everyone. I am so grateful for the opportunity to enrich lives with even the hardest of conversations and dance moves.”

For the students, the impact is just as profound.

“Dance is something that not only lets me express myself but it helps me connect with other people in a way words cannot,” said London, a fifth grader.

“My mom said she had programs like this when she was little, but she didn’t get to learn how to turn and leap at the same time,” said Ja’rya, another student. “I am glad they added dance to it. Dance makes me want to listen.”

Fifth grader Aminah added simply, “This is my third year. I love it!”

Thanks to dedicated educators like Felicion McMillon and the support of the DEA Educational Foundation, students in Chattanooga are dancing, connecting, and growing in confidence—on and off the stage.