PARENT
INFO

Teaching children the joy of movement is my passion. Since childhood, it has been my dream, and by God’s grace, I have pursued it wholeheartedly. Born with bilateral clubfoot and severely pigeon-toed, I underwent numerous medical procedures, for which I am forever grateful to the late Dr. Patello, who helped me to walk and suggested the benefits of dance. Each time I see the tiny casts my feet once fit into, I am filled with amazement and gratitude to God for my abilities. This experience ensures I never take the gift of dance for granted.

 

I am committed to giving my best by continuously educating myself through reading, watching videos, attending master classes, teacher conventions, and Pilates training. I take immense pride in my children’s program, providing a solid, well-rounded technical foundation for many dancers pursuing dance careers. I owe thanks to the excellent teachers and mentors who have inspired me to think outside the box and contribute to the art of dance.

 

My lesson plans stem from over 40 years of teaching children’s dance classes, during which I have continually evaluated and refined my methods. It is incredibly rewarding when my dancers recall specific lessons, asking, “Can we please do the alligator game, stone fairy, or watch me wiggle like a ribbon?”

 

An essential lesson I have learned about teaching young children is the necessity of reconnecting with the child within myself. When a child sees me smile and giggle, pretends to “fly,” senses my confidence, and feels my warmth, they thrive in a dance class. Children crave praise, adoration, playful structure, and creative thinking time, especially in today’s fast-paced world. Many experience sensory overload and will significantly benefit from a physical outlet like dance. Moving the body rhythmically to good music or simply through breath can be deeply therapeutic physically, mentally, and emotionally.

 

As a dance educator, I bear a significant responsibility to help shape both bodies and minds. One of my most important contributions is guiding children to discover how wonderfully they are made while encouraging them to stretch their bodies and minds to become healthier and stronger individuals. I feel blessed to teach and, like Martha Graham, I believe that dance is a celebration of the miracle of the body. I take this role seriously, being mindful that my words, curriculum, and choreography can have powerful effects—both positive and negative.

 

Teaching is a prayer—my daily devotion to learning, striving for excellence, and sharing my knowledge and passion for dance. It is a profound privilege to share my joy of movement with children of all ages! 

 

With gratitude,