Missouri Dance Education Organization

The Missouri Dance Education Organization (MDEO) was a nonprofit organization committed to promoting and advancing dance education throughout the state of Missouri. Established to support dance educators and enthusiasts, MDEO fostered a community dedicated to enhancing the quality of dance instruction and advocacy within the educational sphere.

Mission and Objectives

MDEO's mission centered on uniting and supporting Missouri's dance educators, students, and advocates. The organization aimed to:

• Promote high-quality dance education across all educational levels.
• Provide resources and support for dance teachers in various teaching environments.
• Advocate for the inclusion of dance in school curriculums.
• Facilitate professional development and networking opportunities for dance educators.

Programs and Activities

During its operation, MDEO organized several programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing dance education:

• Professional Development Workshops: These workshops offered dance educators opportunities to learn new teaching methodologies, connect with peers, and improve their instructional skills.

• Scholarship Programs: MDEO administered the Fauman Dance Education Scholarship, designed to support students and educators pursuing dance education in Missouri. This initiative, funded through donations, aimed to provide financial assistance for dance education endeavors.

• Advocacy: MDEO actively participated in advocacy efforts to emphasize the importance of dance in education and its benefits for students, highlighting the cultural and creative aspects of dance.

Partnership and Collaboration

MDEO collaborated with various educational and arts organizations, including the Missouri Alliance for Arts Education (MAAE), to enhance its outreach and effectiveness. Through these partnerships, MDEO contributed to a broader dialogue about the role of arts in education and sought to unite different constituents within the dance community.

Recent Developments

As of December 31, 2025, the Missouri Dance Education Organization was dissolved. Following its dissolution, the mission and activities related to dance education in Missouri are being continued under the auspices of the Missouri Alliance for Arts Education. This transition has allowed for the continuation of scholarships and support for dance educators in the state, preserving the legacy of MDEO's work and ensuring ongoing advocacy for dance education.

Conclusion

The Missouri Dance Education Organization played a significant role in advocating for dance education in Missouri, providing resources, support, and community for dance educators. Despite its dissolution, the organization's impact on dance education continues through the efforts of allied organizations committed to fostering dance in schools and communities throughout the state.

[1] https://www.moaae.org/programs/dance-in-mo [2] https://www.moaae.org/programs/professional-development/new-teacher-mentoring-support [3] https://www.modta.org [4] https://www.ndeo.org [5] https://dese.mo.gov/college-career-readiness/curriculum/associations