Teaching, Creating, and Connecting Through Dance

Since August, I had the opportunity to step into the role of a long-term substitute dance teacher for middle and high school students at a Baltimore City school. From the moment I arrived, the school’s morale stood out—it was one of the best environments I’ve experienced in my years of teaching across diverse educational spaces. The teacher I was covering made my transition seamless. Her passion for her students and her willingness to fold me into the school culture made me feel welcomed and prepared.

I was excited about the opportunity from the start, and now, looking back, I’m filled with gratitude.

Did the kids drive me nuts some days? Absolutely! But that’s to be expected. Having taught dance as an elective before, I’ve learned the art of creative bribery for those students who are especially hesitant about moving outside their comfort zone. On the flip side, there were plenty of moments when I felt a real connection with the students—and when they connected with the movement itself.

By the time my role ended just before Thanksgiving, we had built great memories together. Some highlights included student-led classes, learning about African American Social Dance and dances of the African Diaspora, exploring key innovators of Lindy Hop, and collaborating as teams to create their own dances with meaningful stories, messages, or themes. My ultimate goal was to help them see that their creative voices matter, that stepping outside their comfort zones is possible, and that dance—whether they pursue it further or not—deserves respect and appreciation.

Where I Am Now

Although my time at that school has come to an end, I’m still very much in motion. I’m currently teaching and setting a new work at a conservatory in Northern Maryland. My company, Raediant Movement, is preparing for a school show in January, and I’m also sketching ideas for my Dance Canvas piece, which will premiere in March.

There’s a lot on my plate, but I feel incredibly grateful to be living and working fully in dance. Each teaching space I step into offers something unique and teaches me something new about myself as an artist and instructor. One lesson that continues to resonate with me is this: no matter the level of interest or ability, dance is a medium of connection. It has the power to inspire, challenge, and bring out the light in anyone willing to engage with it.

Teaching dance isn’t just about movement—it’s about creating moments of connection, fostering self-expression, and encouraging students to see what’s possible. For that, I’m thankful every single day.