The creation of a premier dance education program such as the one that exists in Anne Arundel County Public Schools is only possible through the amazing dedication of talented dance educators who inspire students to create, perform, and excel.
That work has once again been recognized on the state level, with Crofton High School’s Rachel Morrissey being named the Maryland Dance Education Association’s High School Dance Educator of the Year. Morrissey, who began her AACPS teaching career in 2016, is the sixth AACPS dance educator to earn the state honor since 2017.
The award is given annually to a dance educator who serves as a positive role model epitomizing fine arts dance education for all students, utilizes various teaching methodologies and plans innovative learning experiences, and conducts a balanced and sequential curriculum.
“I am very honored to be recognized by MDEA because it reflects the hard work of everyone involved in our dance program,” said Morrissey, who is in her third year at Crofton, where she also directs the school’s Dance Company. “After having the privilege of being guided by my own past teachers and mentors, I aspire to be that teacher for my own students – one who truly values their voices, validates them as artists and people, holds high expectations so they can understand that they are worth their own effort, and models a passion for dance and learning.”
Morrissey describes her teaching philosophy as one centered around the idea that dance is a tool for self-discovery, both artistically and personally.
“Just like the mirrors in a dance studio, I strive to show my students all that they are capable of becoming as dance performers, choreographers, and most importantly human beings,” she said. “I enjoy collaborating with my dancers to give them unique learning opportunities through arts integration, leadership roles, student choice, experiences with the creative process, and opportunities for reflection.”
Prior to arriving at Crofton, Morrissey taught dance at MacArthur Middle School, and in the Apex Arts program at Brooklyn Park Middle School and Wiley H. Bates Middle School.
Christiana Walsh, Coordinator of Health, Physical Education and Dance, and Nicole Deming, Dance Academic Specialist, describe Mrs. Morrissey as an educator who advances dance education well beyond her classroom. Through her leadership of countywide initiatives, state and national presentations, curriculum development, student choreography and performance programs, she has expanded access to meaningful dance experiences and helped elevate student voice, creativity, and achievement throughout Anne Arundel County and Maryland.
Said Crofton High School Principal Greg Ryan: “Ms. Morrissey is an amazing educator whose relentless positivity and genuine care for her students are at the heart of everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond to support, encourage, and create opportunities for her students to grow not only as dancers, but as young people. Crofton High School is extremely lucky to call her one of our own.”
Morrissey will be recognized at the annual Maryland Dance Education Association’s annual convention next month.
