Crossroads News
New Offerings Highlight Start of 2018-19 School Year
Beach volleyball, traditional Mexican dance among new programs at Crossroads.
Summer break is over, and the 2018-19 school year is underway at Crossroads, but some students are still spending plenty of time at the beach.
That’s because this fall marks the inaugural season of Upper School boys beach volleyball—one of the many new programs being offered at the School across divisions and disciplines.
Coached by MJ Deutschman, who still helms the boys indoor volleyball program that she started 31 years ago, the boys beach team is currently made up of returning players from the indoor squad.
“We’ve never done it, and the boys have been dying to do it,” MJ says. “It’s a new sport, it’s exciting and it’s fun. Next year, it’ll be open to anybody.”
The inaugural beach season for Upper School girls will launch this spring.
The Roadrunners practice at Annenberg Community Beach House and typically play weekend tournaments at Dockweiler State Beach in a season that runs through mid-October. They’re adjusting well to the two-on-two format and the different terrain.
“We’re definitely getting better,” MJ says. “It’s a totally different game, and you have to be able to do all the skills. You have to pass and hit, you have to play in the wind, you have to play in the sun, and you’ve got to play defense. You’ve got to be smart and make shots. Plus, it’s harder because you’re in the sand, so you’ve got to be in shape.”
In the Middle School, all sixth- and seventh-grade students will now have a robotics rotation to continue developing their design and engineering skills. Science teachers have been working with Middle School Technology Coordinator Dori Friedman to craft grade-appropriate lessons and projects.
“It’s going to be awesome,” Dori says.
Meanwhile, students in the Elementary School will have the opportunity to take an after-school class in baile folklórico, a traditional style of Mexican dance. Taught by Elementary School receptionist Sarah Perez, the introductory course will allow students to discover the different regions, costumes and music of folklórico while learning about the basics of body awareness, alignment, posture and footwork.
“I am so excited to teach a folklórico class at the Elementary School,” Sarah says. “When I was in elementary school, folklórico taught me to be confident.”
“I am so excited to teach a folklórico class at the Elementary School,” Sarah says. “When I was in elementary school, folklórico taught me to be confident.”
