Master Teaching Artist, 2011, Former Executive Director

Julie has been a Teaching Artist since 2011 and is a former Executive Director.

Julie “retired” from being a full-time professional dance instructor and dance studio owner and quickly learned you never “retire” from dancing.

Julie has a passion for giving north Texas youth the tools they need to be successful.

Director Teaching Artist Development, Master Teaching Artist, 2011

Owner, DanceMakers of Texas

Amanda has been a Teaching Artist since 2011 and is the current Director Teaching Artist Development. As a full-time certified professional dance instructor, dance studio owner and Director TA Development, Amanda shares her years of experience, love of dance, and passion to teach to the Teaching Artists and students participating in the in-school residency.

Amanda especially enjoys Latin-Style dances and started ballroom dancing in 2008. Amanda has been trained by master coaches from all over the world and is certified by the Texas Association of Salsa Instructors.

Master Teaching Artist, 2015

Gina has been a Teaching Artist since 2015 and became a member of the Board of Directors in 2024. A full-time certified professional dance instructor and Certified Life and Heath Coach, Gina brings a wealth of knowledge and wonderful energy to the program.

“Beyond dance steps and technique, we practice teamwork, elegance, respect and the experience of inclusion, connection and joy. Dancing facilitates social ability, a sense of connection, and improved self-esteem, while providing the opportunity to fulfill potential and to experience the stuff dreams are made of.” —Gina

Master Teaching Artist, 2016, Executive Director Dance to Succes

Suzy served FWISD for 30 years as a 7th grade English/History teacher for 7 years, and as a guidance counselor for 23 years.

After retiring from education in 2014, Suzy became a Teaching Artist in 2016. Suzy also serves on the Board of Directors for Metro Dance Club, DFW.

As the Executive Director, Suzy leads the Dance to Success team of Teaching Arist and works closely with client schools, teachers and principals.

“I love being a teaching artist because it is very rewarding to see the transformation of the students as the program progresses and they truly begin to enjoy dancing” - Suzy

Senior Teaching Artist, 2018

Tim has been a Teaching Artist since 2018 and brings joy and excitement to the classroom.

“After a 30-year career, singing and conducting music, I wanted to learn to dance. So, 15 years ago I started my dance journey, and it has become my passion. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to share my love of dance with young people. My hope is that dance will touch their lives, fill them with joy and set them on a path to success.” - Tim

Senior Teaching Artist, 2018

Chair, Dance to Success Board of Directors

As a former US Air Force Security Policeman and Drill Sergeant at a Juvenile Corrections Boot Camp, Scott brings a unique perspective to being a Teaching Artist. Scott works primarily as a Dance Assistant instead of in the classroom

Having worked with “good kids that made bad choices,” Scott witnessed first-hand what happens when kids lack respect, self-control, courtesy, civility, and connection with their community and each other. He even used the film, Take the Lead, as part of his curriculum at the boot camp, teaching kids that past mistakes did not define their future.

“We aren’t teaching kids how to dance. We are teaching them how to be respectful, courteous, civil, and gracious through ballroom dance. Dance is the method, being a good person is the goal.” -Scott

Teaching Artist, 2023

With a lifelong love of dance, Virginia became a Teaching Artist in 2023. “Dancing is dreaming with my feet, the hidden language of my soul, my heart speaking out joy through the movement. I desire to give others the joy of creative, free artistic expression when they dance.” - Virginia

Amanda became a Teaching Artist in 2024. Starting her dancing journey in 2017, Amanda quickly fel in love with the art of dance. Amanda believes dance is the perfect tool as both a creative outlet and a fun way to stay active. "Dance has brightened my entire life, I just want to be that light for my students."