Chaudhry Kicks Off Staff Zumba Lessons

Math teacher Sapna Chaudhry teaches a Zumba class to other staff in the dance studio. Photo by Paul Szewczyk ‘12

Math teacher Sapna Chaudhry teaches a Zumba class to other staff in the dance studio. Photo by Paul Szewczyk ‘12

by Devin Cornelius ‘12

To all students who think of teachers as robots who disconnect once school is over and reboot every morning at 7:20, here is a wakeup call. The teaching staff is far from

 a sedentary. In fact, once a week, dedicated staffers from all branches of the school meet in the dance studio after school to Zumba. Zumba is an aerobic form of exercise which combines kickboxing, strength training and interval training all put to dance music.

 “I teach at Life Time Fitness in Columbia and Ms. [Christine] McKeldin suggested the idea that it would be great if we could offer this opportunity to the staff at Sherwood so they don’t have to step outside the building and they get their workout right after school,” said math teacher and zumba class instructor Sapna Chaudhry.

McKeldin went on to organize the class by clearing it with Principal Bill Gregory and sending out mass emails to the entire staff in hopes of rousing interest. McKeldin’s hard work was worth it in the end as approximately a dozen staff now enjoy a rigorous and exhilarating workout.

For one hour a week these staff members have a chance to relax and have fun together while breaking a sweat. “[The Zumba classes have] a lot of social benefits because we don’t see each other as much as we would like to during the school day because we’re all in different departments. When I’m doing Zumba, I get to see people from social studies, from math, from English and I’m in science and I never see them. So it’s kind of fun,” said science teacher Janet Frensilli.

The Zumba classes also have unforeseen benefits as they help Sherwood meet one of its major staff goals of bonding and togetherness. Other regulars to the class include math teachers Kathy Siarkas and Kathy Bredland and social studies teacher Karen Sinclair.

Accessibility is another key allure these in-school workouts provide. “It’s extremely convenient. All I have to do is change my clothes. I have no excuse not to go,” said Frensilli. Teachers and staff get the satisfaction and simplicity of leaving the building with work and their workout for the day complete.

Though there is an easy-breezy feeling to accomplishing so much in one day, the classes themselves could not be characterized as easy in any way. “I am so engaged and into [teaching Zumba classes] that I kind of acquire a different personality. I am a drill sergeant,” joked Chaudhry. “I want energy. I give them options … if you have some health issues. It does not mean you can just stop and not do anything. I always tell them … ‘Keep it moving!’”

The classes have gained ample notice throughout the school as participating teachers share stories with their students. “I think talk about the class has drummed up curiosity about this fun and exciting way to exercise,” said McKeldin. On May 25 curiosity led to action as many students came to observe the class and learn more about Zumba’s unique benefits. Some of Chaudhry’s students even started to attend her Zumba classes taught at Life Time Fitness.

These staff members serve as an important symbol of dedication and fitness for students and non-participating staff members alike. A flame has been ignited throughout Sherwood for this new and lively form of exercise. A meeting will take place to discuss the continuance of the Zumba classes next year.