• Performing Companies

    JD Company Photo 2022-23 (in blue)

    Jefferson Dancers

    The Jefferson Dancers are a multi-ethnic company of dancers, ages 14-18, comprised of the school's most advanced dance students who come to Jefferson High School for dance training. For 47 years these elite dancers have been committed to performing throughout the Portland metropolitan area and beyond. For more information on Jefferson's first company of dancers, visit jeffersondancers.com.

    Jefferson Dancers II

    Jefferson Dancers II are the second company at Jefferson High School and a performing group like the Jefferson Dancers. Dancers in JDII have the opportunity to gain performance experience and to work toward being in the first company.

    Jefferson Dance Program
    For over 47 years, the dance program at Jefferson has offered high-quality dance training. Jefferson High School/Middle College for Advanced Studies offers dance technique classes and performing opportunities for full-time students with dance classes taught in professional studios by instructors with experience as professional dancers and/or choreographers. In addition, students have the chance to study with world-renowned artists in residency programs and to audition for post-secondary training schools and colleges. Three styles of dance are taken during the year to satisfy the district's requirements for physical education. Advanced dance classes require prerequisites and a placement audition.

    Mission

    Our mission is to provide students with the opportunity to study in a professional environment that encourages creativity, commitment and achievement. The development of the whole student through artistic expression, technique, discipline, cultural awareness and community involvement provides a basis for success in all aspects of life as well as a foundation for further study in the arts.

    Contact

    For more information on the Jefferson Dance program, please e-mail Steve Gonzales, Artistic Director, at sgonzale@pps.net or call 503-916-5180 ext 71316.