Ailey Teacher Certification Program Curriculum

The 32-week Ailey Teacher Certification: Ailey Horton Technique course is divided into three distinct parts or "sections.” 

Section A

Section A begins with an intensive week of in-person experiential learning, which includes a strong emphasis on the development and understanding of the foundational warm-up methodologies of the Ailey Horton Technique. Participants begin to construct and teach comprehensive lesson plans and consider ways to assess students’ progress and provide meaningful feedback. In addition, the 12 weeks of Section A offer participants a unique opportunity to explore the historical context that informed and inspired the artistic work of Alvin Ailey and Lester Horton and to deepen their understanding of the cultural representation and relevance that influenced the evolution of the Ailey Horton Technique and the choreography of Alvin Ailey. 

Section B

During the following 10 weeks, Section B continues the program’s focus on understanding the historical background and early influences that shaped the development of the Ailey Horton Technique. As participants build their foundational knowledge around the work of key figures who informed and inspired the work of Alvin Ailey and Lester Horton, they develop an expansive movement vocabulary to establish context for their in-depth study and understanding of the Ailey Horton Technique. Participants then apply their expanded knowledge to an Ailey Horton sequencing project. 

Section C

In the final 10 weeks, Section C guides participants through a study of “standards-based” teaching and learning methods. Participants continue to broaden their understanding of the Ailey Horton Technique and incorporate that knowledge into the creation of a series of powerful, student-centered lesson plans. The program concludes with a teaching practicum in demonstration of the acquired knowledge and skills in the Ailey Horton Technique supported by comprehensive feedback. 

Across the entire 32 weeks, the program offers an active learning approach with frequent opportunities for self-reflection and goal setting, as educators consider how they will bring their new knowledge and understandings into their own teaching practice.  

In-Person “Kick-Off Week” Daily Schedule* (9AM – 5PM)