Skilled, knowledgeable teachers are at the heart of exemplary fine arts dance programs. In becoming certified to teach in Texas, dance instructors demonstrate their knowledge of fine arts dance content and their ability to successfully model and teach dance techniques. Teachers help students make connections between the content and skills of diverse dance traditions and the personal interests that students bring to their study of the art form. Dance teachers are committed to working with all students to increase knowledge and skills identified in the TEKS and to build and sustain dance programs capable of serving their students' needs. Collaboration among fine arts dance teachers is essential in the process of shaping cohesive and comprehensive programs.