Spotted: Northeast Hazel Dell

King’s Way Christian High School students recently completed a six-week introduction to dance class at the Vancouver Ballroom. Husband-and-wife dance teachers Joseph and Julieann Platt gave students a crash course in the fox trot, waltz, cha cha, rumba and swing.

http://www.josephandjulieann.com

Joseph said the duo teaches community classes “because it’s fun and we change people’s lives.”

New classes for King’s Way students begin Jan. 9. This time, the six-week session will focus on swing dancing. The Platts will offer specialized sessions on each of their five types of dance through the summer.

“I think most of the kids will take all of the series,” Joseph said. “They will get a real well-rounded understanding of the five basic dances.”

Right now, classes are $35 for the session. Platt said the prices may change with more students.

The classes are only for King’s Way students, but Joseph said any group or school interested in lessons is welcome to call him to see what can be worked out.

The Platts also teach drop-in dance classes at the Elks Lodge at 11605 S.E. McGillivray Blvd. Those classes, which Joseph said are targeted at adults, will start up again after the holidays.

Joseph, a former Arthur Murray dance instructor, said his love for dance began when he was 17. “My mom signed me and my sister up for a class,” he said.

The Platts live in the Sunnyside neighborhood.