You might imagine there would be some trepidation amongst fifth graders when they’re asked to rhumba, but not Osborn School fifth graders.

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You might imagine there would be some trepidation amongst fifth graders when they’re asked to rhumba, but not Osborn School fifth graders. Ever since former Principal Clarita Zeppie brought ballroom dancing to the school (and made it a requirement), the boys and girls have been hot to foxtrot, merengue, tango, and swing! In fact, most of the fifth graders try out for the school team that competes in the metropolitan area.

Hats off to this year’s 12-person Osborn team, which won a gold medal at the competition in Queens December 9, and made it all the way to the semifinals.

Dancing Ballroom of New York City runs the program. The senior teaching artist is Meghan Grupposo, and the liaison is Ivelisse Hornyak. During the course, the children come home full of memorable ways to remember the moves: “Peanut butter jelly” (how to grasp/hold one another’s hands), “One on the cheese, one on the crust” (for learning the swing), and “Scorpion tail” (tango).

— Photos by Bill Eggers