D’Andrea’s pilates class the newest addition.
photo by Kevin Fleming
The Spartan-Up! program initiated by the TJ Culture Committee earlier this year has so far exploded onto the school spirit scene. Spartan-Up! has revitalized the school with countless actions across campus, which have so far included the dusting and cleaning of the trophy cases, a teacher recognition board in the main office, a resurrected Chess Club and many, many more.
One activity in particular that has just sprung into effect is the TJ Yoga and Pilates class. Taught by Special Ed Instructor Deborah D’Andrea, the class is a mind/body stretching class, with an emphasis on relaxation. The class is open to all TJ faculty and staff of any age or fitness level. “Pilates can be described as a faster yoga,” said D’Andrea. “The first class was held on a Thursday from 3 to 4pm, and was a great success with roughly 8 attendees. I think it got a great response and everyone enjoyed it.” D’Andrea plans to pursue the pilates class throughout the remainder of the year.
In addition to leading the pilates class at TJ, D’Andrea is one of the Special Education Managers, as well as an assistant to many teachers in the science department. “I assist in Bio with Ms. Connely and Mr. Hammond, along with Earth Science with Mr. Butera.” Outside of the school, D’Andrea teaches pilates classes at the South West Denver YMCA, and the Lakewood Rec. Center.
“D’Andrea’s class was a soothing breath of fresh air,” said attendee Molly Pitrone. “If the class was more of a normal occurrence, we would have a far more relaxing teaching staff.”
While Spartan-Up! continues to blast through the TJ community, teachers and staff continue to add to the list of contributions, and D’Andrea’s pilates class is obviously no exception. “When I first heard of the Spartan-Up program I immediately thought of doing a pilates class,” said D’Andrea. “What better thing to bring to TJ and Spartan-Up! than what I do best.”
Contact D’andrea in room 16 if you are interested in joining her pilates class.
