First graders eagerly gather outside the Elizabeth Gordon Dance Studio excited about what their next class holds—movement, creativity and fun. With a smile on her face and a skip in her step, dance instructor Stephanie Christensen greets them, quickly ushering the girls into the studio to begin a fun warm up exercise. Dance, in particular ballet technique, is an integral part of the Lower School curriculum not only cultivating artistic appreciation within the young students but developing their core strength and sharpening focus.