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Educators’ Testimonials
Photographer: Mark Edward Harris
Educators and Administrators attest to the impact that CDI has on children.
“I think this program allowed me to see my students in a different light. It was truly enlightening.”
-Maura Simon, Classroom Teacher, Eagle Rock Elementary, 2003

"To be honest, at the beginning last year I was a bit skeptical, but now I absolutely love the program and hope it continues at my school and hopefully is able to expand to other lucky schools."
-Richard Thorne, 5th grade Classroom Teacher, Robert F. Kennedy Elementary

Building students’ confidence:

“The students gained self confidence, knowledge and exploration of their own talents and cooperation through fun activity”
-Scherrie James, Former teacher at Saturn St. Elementary

“[Students] learned to have faith in their abilities, no matter what the occasion [and to] put themselves in positive risk taking situations.”
-Laurel Hitchcock, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Eagle Rock Elementary

“Most of all, I think CDI does an absolute fantastic job in building confidence in the most frightened and intimidated child.”
-Michelle K. Anta Maria, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Eagle Rock Elementary

Critical Thinking, Discipline, and Inspiration (CDI):
 
“The program was rigorous, as always, it is not just dance movement, it is thinking, creativity, expression and a whole lot of energy.”
-Gerardo Lopez, Robert F. Kennedy Elementary

“It was evident by the students through their presentation that a high level of learning had taken place over the week. The instructors and the students put on a show that excited everyone that was there. It is always exciting to witness students exhibit enthusiasm, excitement and energy. I know that this will be a long lasting positive experience in their lives.”
-Anthony L. White, LAUSD, Specialist, Secondary Music, Visual & Performing Arts Unit, 2001

"CDI - is contagious! The piano tunes move their little inner musical souls!"
-Mr. Lopez, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher

“My students were happy to wake up and come to school to be a part of something fun.”
-Veero Derkarabetian, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Westminster Elementary school

Building Better Students

“CDI has been inspirational for my fourth grade class! Not only do they have a lot of
fun, it has improved my students’ motivation and attitudes toward school as a whole.
Several of my students’ gross motor skills have greatly improved.”

-Sheila Bouffard, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Westminster Ave. School

“CDI has been a wonderful experience for my students. They all look forward to
Tuesdays when they can dance. CDI has also helped them in other area of academics.
They appear to be more motivated and focused.”

-Molly Prezola, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Saturn Street School

“Each year I’m amazed at the confidence students gain as a result of their
participation in this outstanding program. My class consists of students in regular
education, second language learners and resource students. Dance is our favorite part
of the week... I’ve seen skills such as memory, following directions, math,
coordination, sequencing, self-image, confidence and physical agility improve during
the year. Thank you!”

-Trudy Warnberg, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Eagle Rock Elementary School

Teaching Excellence

“As much as I’d like to think I am an engaging teacher, I can’t compare with CDI. For
forty-five minutes every Friday my students are focused, enthusiastic, and engaged.
This is a model program for teachers and students alike. Challenging, fun, exciting,
rewarding, How can it get any better?”

-Linc Richards, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Eagle Rock Elementary School

“CDI has been a fantastic opportunity for the children to be creative; and find talents
they probably didn’t know they had. It gives every child an equal opportunity to be
successful and be a “STAR”. A program of high excellence, and instructors who are
dedicated and talented.”

-Ms. Schneider, 4th Grade Classroom Teacher, Westminster Ave. School