Margy Grant is an accomplished Irish Step dancer with many, many years of competitive and performing experience.  As a student of the McDade School, she participated in Regional and National competitions in the United States and in World competitions in Ireland, winning many awards.  Together with Maureen Hegarty and Ann Marie Sheehan, they started The Cara School to promote Irish heritage and culture.  The teachers hope to pass on the tradition of Irish dance, prepare those who wish to compete so they can do so with success and pride, and create opportunities for everyone to enjoy the experiences that Irish dancing offers.  The teachers are fully accredited and qualified by the An Coimisiun le Rincf Gaelacha in Ireland.  They are also members of the Irish Dancing Teacher's Association of North America (IDTANA) and the Eastern Regional Teacher's Association.

Margy Grant lives in Atglen, Pa., with her husband, John, and their two children, Rita and Joseph.  Margy is a graduate of Immaculata College.

Students of The Cara School at the OCD will develop the physical skills associated with Irish dance: body control, coordination, good posture, etc.  They will also improve listening skills and attention spans, increase self-confidence, have opportunities to participate in competitions and performances in both solo and team events.

The Cara School accepts children over 5 years of age.  Individual dancing skills are learned in a progression and there is no "normal" progression.  Progress is dependent upon a dancer's age, talent, commitment, home practice, etc.

Immediately a beginner will learn 3's and 7's.  These are the foundation of all Irish dance steps.  Children will develop poise and grace and, as they advance, they will be able to execute more complex steps - moving from the Jig and Reel to Hornpipe, Slip Jig, Treble Jig and Set Dances.

From the beginning, children will dance with other dancers, performing the same steps at the same time.  This helps the group to develop the all-important sense of timing.  These "Figure" dances will include hand holding and other arm movements in groups of 2,3,4,6 and 8.