It’s not often that adults consider an 11-year-old to be a role model – it’s usually the other way around. But Kaylee Lane, a 6th grader at Rundlett Middle School, is definitely worth looking up to, no matter your age.
Recently, Kaylee was accepted to a jazz and ballet summer intensive program held at the prestigious Joffrey Ballet School in New York City. The four-week program is more than just dance classes – Kaylee will also learn dance terminology, the history of dance, proper nutrition, pilates and be responsible for preparing all her own meals.
As Kaylee’s mom Sarah Sherblom points out, the attendees of such a program are treated like athletes and aren’t simply there to better hone their craft, but also to learn how to keep their bodies fit and healthy.
But what makes this feat so impressive is Kaylee’s dedication. Not only is the program tough to get into, but the young go-getter spends more than 20 hours a week on dance education and has been competing since she was 5 years old. However, talk to Kaylee and she acts as if being that devoted is no big deal – it’s just something she does because, well, she really likes to dance.
“Having a love for dance, I think, is the most important thing,” Kaylee said. “If you don’t love to dance, then it’s not really dancing – it’s more like flailing around.”
“Well put,” Sarah said, smiling at her daughter.
The bond between mother and daughter is clear. When asked if mom will miss Kaylee during the four weeks she’ll be in New York, Sarah replied, “Yes. I don’t’ know what I’m going to do with myself. We’re pretty close.” Although Kaylee says she’ll miss mom, too, she’s looking forward to all the fun she’ll have and learning more about her favorite activity.
Hopefully there will be a small reminder of home on her trip, too. Kaylee will be going to the program with a chaperone she hasn’t met yet, and will be rooming with two to four girls she also does not know. But Kaylee’s dance teacher, Brandi Nylen of the Eastern Ballet Institute, is planning to meet up with Kaylee halfway through the program and be with her for the last two weeks, as long as her application to be a chaperone goes through.
Until then, Kaylee will keep working hard and being a fantastic 11-year-old kid. When she isn’t dancing, Kaylee says she enjoys writing mysteries, hanging out with friends and . . . homework.
“Homework?” I asked. “You like homework?”
She giggles and says, “Yes. Well, I guess it depends on what kind.”
I later found out that her favorite classes are science, social students and math.
“Wow, you’re very well-rounded,” I said.
She timidly smiled, “Thank you.”
The summer intensive costs $5,000. Although Sarah and Kaylee have had some success raising money through fundraisers, a scholarship and generous friends and family, they could still use some assistance.
If you wish to help, stop by Sarah’s store at Show Hoppers Dance Boutique, 9 Pleasant St. Ext or e-mail ssherblom@gmail.com.
