When Liberty Dance Center first opened its doors in 2008, there were 2 teachers, including myself. 18 seasons later, we now have a team of 18 teachers.
Building our team of teachers has been one of my biggest pride and joys. Many of them are alum, having danced with us when they were kids and now passing on the “LDC Legacy” to the next generation. Some of them joined us later, bringing new energy and ideas while also fitting into our Liberty Dance Center culture perfectly.
Making Room for a Balanced Life
Having a balanced life is very important for me to have myself, but also to ensure that my team does as well.
So whether that means taking time off for a vacation, attending their children’s game or school concert, a conflict with their other job, staying home when not feeling well…there are many reasons that come up that pull a teacher from their classroom. That’s life! But what REALLY impresses me is how time and time again, when someone needs a sub for whatever the reason, there are people waiting in the wings, hands up willing to help.
And to be honest, I used to get stressed when there was a sub as I feared that meant we weren’t offering the “product” the dancers/parents expected. But what I have learned over the years is that it’s actually the opposite! What a gift the students are actually getting by having a new teacher. The subs are all more than qualified to teach the classes they sub for. And while they all follow a similar and familiar format of class, they each bring a new energy and perspective.
Sometimes hearing a correction in a slightly different way can be what makes “it click” for a dancer. Sometimes a spicy new warmup or across the floor combo can be just what the dancer needed to get out of a funk.
Building Community Across Classes
And there have even been times where we were in a bind and have had to combine 2 classes. And I will say those opportunities tend to be the most fun and memorable! Even (and especially) when we combine different age groups! In the past when we’ve brought a 9-12 year old class together with a teen class the energy is electric in the room.
The older kids are motivated to really show the younger kids what they can do. And the younger kids are so inspired knowing and seeing firsthand what they are capable of. We often make sure they “mix and mingle” and get to know someone from the other class too which just adds to one of our core values, creating community.
So the next time you see a sub in your or your dancer’s class, we hope you see it as an opportunity! So much good can come from it.
And I want to thank my amazing team for always being willing to do what needs to be done to help each other out and ensure our students have a great experience. I know not all studios are as lucky as we are…something I don’t take for granted one bit.
~Miss Kate
