APA dance teacher becomes lead instructor at Governor's School East

Amanda Hort has made her presence felt at more than just Arendell Parrott Academy.

Hort — a dance teacher at APA — was the lead instructor this summer at the Governor’s School East at Meredith College in Raleigh, instructing 16 high school students with a concentration in dance. Hort worked twice daily with the students, including one of her own students — Aliza Matthews.

Hort provided students freedom to experiment in multiple disciplines, collaborating with those studying math, French, visual arts and instrumental music. Also, with dance elective classes being taught three times a week — with about 50 students participating in each one — there were other dimensions like jazz, swing dancing and dance fitness being offered.

“This allowed me to be my best self and my students to be their best selves,” Hort said. “Even though we had differing views, we could be open-minded and make connections.”

Coral Maxwell, a student who took Hort’s ballet, barre and stretch class, said she liked the teacher’s style.

“Amanda not only explained each move incredibly well, she also gave us the back stories to why the moves were named what they were,” Maxwell said. “Overall, it was a great learning experience in a totally judgement-free zone.”

Hort, heading into her 10th year at Parrott, is also on the Board of Directors for the N.C. Association for Scholastic Activities.