Our mission is to inspire possibilities through dance education programs that strengthen schools and communities with limited arts access.
Our vision is to be a leader in dance education by utilizing the art form of movement as a catalyst to help students build life skills for individual success.
Our values
• Service: Our actions and decisions are guided by a commitment to enhancing the lives of all of our stakeholders.
• Respect: All of our work is conducted with understanding and appreciation for people, ideas and experiences.
• Flexibility: We proactively adapt our activities to meet the dynamic needs of our stakeholders.
•Inclusion: We wholeheartedly seek opportunities to promote equity and opportunity for all people.
• Competency: Our ability to serve our constituents is based on demonstrated abilities and skills.
Forward Momentum Chicago was founded on the principal of providing dance education to children and communities with limited arts access. Our commitment to servicing schools located in the city’s south and southwest neighborhoods are our number one priority. We are committed to ensuring access and equity to the BIPoC communities through dance programs that speak directly to the youth we serve. Our curriculum is developed around National Common Core Standards, National Arts Standards, and 21st Century Learning. We include a strong component SEL standards and goals which are infused throughout instruction. FMC brings professionally taught, affordable programs that celebrate the diversity of the city, out of the studio right into Chicago’s public schools and neighborhoods.
Our Big Ideas, Enduring Understanding, and Essential Questions transcend each discipline allowing students to leave dance class with critical thinking, communication, and creative processes that they can apply to their other subjects. Our programs are fun! Engaging! And best of all, affordable!
Forward Momentum Chicago programs are built upon a foundation in:
• 21st Century Learning Goals
• National Common Core Standards
• National Dance Standards
• Social Emotional Learning
We are proud to be one of eight dance companies a part of the Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project!
The Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project (CBDLP), developed through a partnership between Logan Center Community Arts and the Joyce Foundation’s Culture Program, as well as leaders from each dance company, is a multi-year project that seeks to celebrate the historic impact of Chicago-based black choreographers in the national dance community, and strengthen the impact and reach of black dance for generations to come. The eight companies were selected specifically for the history and impact of their work including legacy, next-generation, and arts education dance companies.