Skinner Road School holds second annual Michael Jackson Dance Party

Third-graders Jakub and Dalton learn dance steps from each other at the Michael Jackson Dance Party in the Skinner Road School gymnasium on March 30. Photos by Steve Smith.

Last year, Skinner Road School physical education teacher Eric Uthgennant wanted to find another way for students to get some extra physical activity. After learning through an informal poll that many kids enjoy the music of Michael Jackson, Uthgennant decided to host a Michael Jackson Dance Party after school in March of 2010.

This year, on March 30, the school held the second annual dance, and again had the King of Pop's music playing on the boom box, while a DVD of the concert documentary “This is It” played on the large screen. More than 80 students came to the party, while some parents watched. The attendance was up 33 percent from last year.

Uthegennant said he was pleased, and expected the annual tradition to continue next year.