The Rock Academy
Partnering with parents to provide educational opportunities for students to fulfill their unique purpose.
THE
TEAM
Here at The Rock Academy we love our faculty and staff. They are like family to us and are well qualified, trained and ready to prepare your student to be the best they can be!
Principal
Theater Director
EDUCATION:
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High School Graduate of International Community School 2002
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Currently in pursuit of her AA and Bachelors in Business through SSC
EXPERIENCE:
Kaley has been teaching at TRA for 13+ years in the classroom and has produced over 11 major productions including 6 musicals. She is an accomplished singer and songwriter. She brings her passion for hands on learning with creative projects and group activities to her history classes as well.
Liz and her husband Tim were called into the education ministry since they began home educating their children in 1989. To this day, ministering to families by offering education opportunities is one of their greatest joys.
EDUCATION:
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Bowling Green State University (1977-1980) Music Ed
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UCF (1980-1982) Music Ed
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SSC (2001) AA Gen Ed with Honors
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Aidan University (2025) Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education
EXPERIENCE:
Liz has been administrator and co-founder of Faith United Home Educators (1990-1998), International Community School High School Administrator (1998-2007) and Principal and math teacher at The Rock Academy (2009-Present). She has more than 20 years of classroom teaching experience and has more than 25 years of experience serving with FCCPSA, a faith based accreditation organization.
Liz Darnell
Kaley Hoffman
Guidance Counselor
High School Math Teacher
Mrs. Hoffman and her husband Matt teach their 3 daughters through The Rock Academy. Mrs. Hoffman has been with the school since 2009 and has a passion for fine arts and bringing the creativity of the Kingdom into the classroom. Her passion is to see children realize and pursue their purpose with passion and integrity!
Middle/High School Science and Math Teacher
Ryanne has always had a passion for science and math. As a former student of TRA, she volunteered more than 200 hours at the Ponce Marine Science Center. She graduated with honors from TRA and went on to see her dream come true of earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Biology in just 3 years!
EDUCATION:
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Graduated from TRA 2015
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Seminole State AA Degree in Gen Ed
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USF, St. Petersburg, FL Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Biology
High School Science Teacher
Middle School Science Teacher
EDUCATION:
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North Central University Bachelor of Arts Elementary Education
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Florida State Certified Teacher (2015-Present)
Ryanne Graham
Andy Green
Andy is well known in the homeschooling community as a successful tutor, teacher, and coach. She loves helping families reach their educational goals. Mrs. Green shares her love of learning and demonstrates to students perseverance and excellence!
EXPERIENCE:
Andy is currently an educational and curriculum consultant for homeschooling families and provides her services of evaluator, tutor, and writing instructor. She has over 15 years of teaching experience and has been with TRA since 2016.
EXPERIENCE:
Ryanne is currently in her second of teaching at TRA and has brought her youth and love of science to the classroom!
Middle School Language Arts Teacher
Mrs. Slone brings a deep passion for teaching and a unique blend of experience to her role as a Language Arts teacher.
EDUCATION:
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Associate of Arts in Education from Seminole State College
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Specialized training in both instructional technology and teaching diverse student populations
EXPERIENCE:
Her teaching hourney began in high school through an on-campus education program followed by several years of classroom experience at a private Christian school while attending college.
After 13 years in corporate America, Mrs. Slone felt called to return to the classroom, where her heart has always been.
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In addition to her formal teaching roles, she homeschooled her own children for seven years, giving her a rich perspective on individualized learning and student engagement. She is passionate about helping students fidn their voice through reading, writing, and critical thinking--and believes that every learner brings something valuable to the classroom.
Vanessa has been a teacher at Kidz Rock ELC for 9 years. Her passion has always been children and she has 2 beautiful children on campus. Her dream was to move into Elementary education, which the Father made possible in 2023
EDUCATION:
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High School Diploma
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ECPC
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90 Hours Staff Credential
EXPERIENCE:
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Full-Time Lead Teacher at Kidz Rock ELC
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9 years as teacher and administration for Kidz Rock ELC
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Substitute teacher for TRA
Stephanie Slone
Vanessa Perez
Fourth Grade Teacher
Faculty Advisor, US History, Government and Economics Teacher and Ignitia Supervisor
Yanzza has been a vital part of the work of TRA for the last 4 years. She has volunteered, taught and is now overseeing our professional development. She is actively meeting with teachers and ensuring we are surpassing the standards. She is a vital part of our team and is developing a program for teachers that is second to none.
EDUCATION:
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Stetson University, Bachelor of Arts: Political Science/Pre-Law Minor: International Relations/Latin American Studies
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Walden University, Masters of Science: Integrating Technology into the classroom.
EXPERIENCE:
Yanzza has extensive teaching experience and has been an instructor for SSC, Meadowbrook Middle School, and Galaxy Middle School. She has taught ESOL, Geography, American History, Social Science and served on numerous boards as well as serving as a mentor to teachers. This year she has taken on the role of faculty advisor, training, teaching and overseeing classroom management, accomodations and standards!
This is Matt's joined the TRA team in 2023, and we are so thankful he came to share his talents here. Matt is a gifted and experienced artist who shares his faith through the joy of creating!
EDUCATION: ​
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BA Visual Arts and Graphics from Fayetteville State University in NC December 1995
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Walt Disney World’s College Program
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Ducktorate Degree from
Disney University
May 1998
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EXPERIENCE:​
Mr. Mercer was the Seventy-First High School Senior Class President
May 1992
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Mr. Mercer has:
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Been a professional artist since 1993
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Illustrated 5 books,
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Drawn Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and his family of the Dallas Cowboys,
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Been invited to the White House to meet the POTUS in 2010 and presented him with a family portrait that included their dog.
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Been drawing caricatures for WDW since 1999, and now has artwork on 6 of the 7 continents as a result.
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Yanzza Rojas-Negron
Matthew Mercer
Middle School and High School Art Teacher
Yearbook Teacher
Guided Study Supervisor
Trisha Walshe
Learning Specialist
Trish brings her passion, innovation, and experience to TRA and has been a blessing to all who attend her classes. She consistently makes learning exciting while demonstrating her faith in a genuine and natural way.
EDUCATION:
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State of FL Exceptional Student Education (K-12) Professional Educator's Certificate
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Elementary Education (K-6) Professional Educator's Certificate
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Board Certified Behavior Analyst Graduate Certificate
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New Jersey Certification as a learning Disabilities Teacher/Consultant
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Rutgers (NJ) B.S. in Public Health B.A. in History
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Master's Degree (M.A.) in General/Special Education from La Salle University in Philadelphia, PA.
EXPERIENCE:
Trish has been teaching since 1998 and has been a part of our team since 2016. Students love the interactive way she teaches making everything exciting and meaningful. Her goals are to serve typically developing and gifted students and those with disabilities by addressing their individual needs.
Mrs. Walshe is certified in the Wilson Reading System and the Orton-Gillingham System and she will be contracting with students who need these specialized programs for academic success.
Tim Kearney
Tim Kearney is a long-time member of The Rock of Central Florida. He joined the faculty of The Rock Academy in the 2022-23 school year. Tim brings his levity, joy, passion and creativity to his students. He loves all forms of media, and loves helping people uncover and express the passions that the Father has instilled in each of them.
EDUCATION:
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Academic Diploma Seminole High School
EXPERIENCE:
Tim has over 24 years of experience in project management, video production, music production, audio engineering, writing, print production, graphic design, web design and digital marketing. He currently works as a freelancer in these fields, and loves passing his knowledge and experience to those eager to learn.
First Grade Teacher
After Care Teacher
Amber is in her first year of teaching for The Rock Academy and has a passion for teaching and imparting to children. She is a kind person who brings great energy to the room. She is quiet and reserved but very organized in the classroom and in her life. She is a strong leader in the classroom and among the faculty.
EDUCATION:
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Associates of Arts Degree from Daytona State College in 2014
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Pursuing Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science and expected to graduate in 2021
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Childcare CDA and Director's Credentials from Early Learning Coalition in Flagler, FL
EXPERIENCE:
Amber was a lead teacher at Ladybird Academy in Debary, FL from 2018-2021 where she learned organization, leadership, and patience in the classroom.
Amber Latham
Media Teacher
Midiana Markley joined The Rock Academy in 2022. She brings a desire to instruct and care for our youngest students. And, of course, a winning smile! Among her interests are: playing the clarinet, cooking, collecting coffee mugs, and spending time with family.
EDUCATION:
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New Smyrna Beach High School Class of 2012
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Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA Associate of Arts in Early Education
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Seminole State College, Sanford, FL Director's Credential Certification
EXPERIENCE:
Midiana was Assistant Director and VPK teacher at Serendipity Learning Center before joining our team. Prior to that, she was Teacher II at Community Coordinated Care for Children, and Paraprofessional VPK ESE at Idyllwilde Elementary. Midiana is certified in First Aid and CPR, as well.
Midiana Markley
Kindergarten Teacher
Tom Weichart is a member of The Rock of Central Florida, and a former member of The Rock Academy faculty. He has returned to the faculty as of the 2022-23 school year.
EDUCATION:
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Bachelor of Science - Nursing University of Florida
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Master of Science - Administration Central Michigan University
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Master of Science - Nursing University of Central Florida
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Master of Theological Studies Liberty University
EXPERIENCE:
Tom has held numerous nursing positions during his career, including being a member of the White House Medical Staff for several years. He has also held lecturing and instructional positions.
Campus Supervisor
Christian is a TRA graduate and a faithful member of The Rock Church.
EDUCATION:
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AA Degree Semimole State
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Currently enrolled at UCF pursuing an engineering degree.
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EXPERIENCE:
Christian is a leader in summer camp every year.
In 2023-2024 he served TRA as a Guided Study teacher helping students complete their coursework and learn organizational skills.
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Tom Weichart
US History Field Trip Supervisor
Christian Thebaud
Elementary Director
Club Rock STEAM Coordinator
3rd Grade Teacher
Heather is a member of The Rock of Central FL and loves crafting and sewing. She loves children and has dedicated her life to teaching them. She loves building things with her husband and doing anything outdoors. Heather brings so much life and light to her classroom and we are honored to have her here at TRA.
EDUCATION:
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High School Diploma from Mt. View High School in Bend, OR
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Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Pinellas Technical College in 2001
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Certification in Child Care Operations in 2016
EXPERIENCE:
Heather has taught many different ages and grades in Elementary for several years. She worked as the kindergarten through 2nd grade teacher from 2005-2015 at Harris Private School in Oregon. She also was Assistant Director / Education Coach from 2016 to 2021 at Primrose School of Winter Springs. Heather is talented and anointed and heads up our entire elementary program from curriculum to training.
Middle School PE Coach
High School Health and Personal Fitness Teacher
Shevieve is a passionate and enthusiastic teacher who has a love for all things fitness. She has been a member of The Rock of Central FL for 15 years and joined The Rock Academy in her first year of teaching PE in 2021. She and her husband own and operate Shadow Pack Crossfit in Debary, FL.
EDUCATION:
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High School Diploma from Lyman High School
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Personal Training Certification in 2018 from American Counsel on Exercise
EXPERIENCE:
Shevieve and her husband own and operate their own gym, Shadow Pack CrossFit in Debary, FL where she personal trains and leads classes on a daily basis. Shevieve is also Red Cross CPR and AED certified. Shevieve completed TRA's New Teacher Training Course in 2021
Heather Coday
Shevieve Padgett
Middle School Language Arts Teacher
Kim Gibbons has been a part of TRA for many years. She has an enthusiasm for learning and a genuine love for students.
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EDUCATION:
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Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Organizational Management from Warner Southern University-
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AA at Seminole State.
EXPERIENCE:
Kim has been teaching for more than 25 years and she embraces her students each year with a new vision to empower them. She is called to partner with parents to see students succeed.
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Middle School Math Teacher
High School Spanish Teacher
Vanessa has been a member of The Rock of Central Florida for years, and joined The Rock Academy team in 2022. She enjoys cooking, gardening, and being creative.
EDUCATION:
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Port Richmond HS, Staten Island, NY Class of 2001
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SUNY Maritime College, New York Mechanical Engineering major
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Southeastern College, Lakeland, FL Ministerial Leadership/Psychology
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Hair Benderz, Lakeland, FL Cosmetology certification
EXPERIENCE:
Vanessa shows excellence in everything she puts her hand to. She completed all of the TRA teacher training and then took the classroom by storm. She is innovative, connects with students and their families, and works tirelessly to see her classes succeed.
Kim Gibbons
Vanessa Pacheco
English I, II, III, IV
Botanuy
Ms. Lee brings a strong passion for literature, writing, and helping students find their unique voice. With a background in both STEM and the humanities, she challenges students to think critically, write authentically, and engage deeply with classic and modern texts.
For Botany, she brings curiosity, creativity, and a hands-on approach to science learning. She loves helping students explore the beauty and wonder of the natural world through interactive labs, nature walks, and project-based learning.
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EDUCATION:
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AA Seminole State College
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Studied Chemistry & Pre-Med at Florida A & M
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Completed the prestigious Women's Entrepreneurship Certification Program through Cornell University graduating with perfect scores.
EXPERIENCE:
Ms. Lee has over 7 years of experience as a professional tutor and 3 years as a homeschooling educator. Her teaching style blends real-world relevance with creative expression, and she is committed to preparing students for both academic success and personal growth.​​​​​​​​
Archie has been a member of The Rock of Central Florida for many years, and is also a member of the staff. He joined The Rock Academy in 2023. His interests include music and radio-contolled models.
EXPERIENCE:
Before joining The Rock Academy, Archie enjoyed diverse career experience.s This includes the following:
Self-employed business owner of The RC Party, a radio-controlled model experience; store manager at Hobby Town USA; substitute and emotional behavior disorder instructor for Lakeview Middle School; after school instructor for Boys and Girls Clubs of America; mailroom coordinator and distribution center returns processor for Charisma Media.
Michelle Lee
Middle School History Teacher
High School Bible Teacher
EDUCATION:
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Apopka High School, Apopka, FL
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Seminole State College, Sanford, FL AA in General Studies
Archie Phillips
A.J. Phillips
Outdoor Activity Teacher
TRC Youth Pastor
A.J. and his family have been an integral part of the ministry since he was a teen. He is a talented musician and gifted speaker. A.J. was recently ordained as a minister with The Rock of Central Florida.
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EXPERIENCE:
A.J. is the Youth Pastor of TRC and he has served in that position for 8 years. He oversees the spiritual mentorship of students 6th grade-12th at weekly meetings and hosts a dynamic youth camp every summer.
He has taught Bible on campus is a regular speaker at the school's Charge chapel services.
Nicole Dorsey
Academic Interventionist
Guided Study Director
Ms. Nicole brings a wealth of compassion patience, experience, and adaptability as well as a deep understanding of individualized education to TRA. She is committed to building strong partnerships with parents as she understands that collaboration between home and school is vital for student success.
EDUCATION:
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Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from University of Central Florida
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Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Behavior Analysis Professional Practice at Floria Institute of Technology.​
EXPERIENCE:
Ms. Dorsey worked for 2 years as a Behavioral Interventionist within the public school system. As an IEP Advocate she supported families in understanding and enhancing their IEP's and 504 plans. Additionally she provides Behavior Modification services to children and families adopting children from out of state.
Kari Enot
2nd Grade Teacher
Mrs. Kari's favorite part of teaching is the bond she gets to make with each and ever one of her students. Her mother and grandmother were both teachers and it has been her dream to teach since she was 5!
EDUCATION:
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​Teacher for 7 years
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Joined TRA last year as a substitute and teacher's aide.
Diana Martinez
Club Rock STEAM Teacher
Diana has been working in childcare for the past year. She shares her curiosity and her eagerness to learn with her students.
EDUCATION:
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Bachelor of Science Degree in Digital Media from University of Central Florida
Club Rock STEAM Asst.
Ella is currently a junior at TRA. She has 3 siblings and has experience with home education, private school and virtual college courses.
She loves children and brings her creativity and energy to the classroom.
EDUCATION:
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Graduates May 2027
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Currently Dual Enrolled at Seminole State Collete
EXPERIENCE:
Ella has been serving with children through her church, The Rock of Central Florida, and the summer camp program at TRA-preschool during the summer.
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She is active in her youth group and is faithful to her church.
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Ella Hoffman
Jacob Lowrey
Piano Teacher
Jacob is part of The Rock of Central Florida worship team, and has been a member for many years. He came to The Rock Academy in 2018, to provide his keyboard skills to our students.
EDUCATION:
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Updated soon
EXPERIENCE:
Updated Soon
Tiffany Smith
Dance Teacher
Mrs. Tiffany is the owner of Shell We Dance Academy/ The Pivotal Dance Training Co in Orange City, FL.
With over 30 years of experience in various dance styles, Mrs. Tiffany is passionate about sharing the joy of dance with students of all ages and skill levels.
Specializing in a variety of dance genres, she brings a unique blend of technical expertise and creative expression to her classes.
Known for her supportive and scaffolded teaching techniques, she creates a positive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive.
EXPERIENCE:
Mrs. Tiffany began her dancer journey at a young age. While growing jp in Metropolitan New York, she was exposed to the heart of Broadway throughout her childhood. While training in Brooklyn, NY, she was the lead choreographer for her school district musicals by the age of 10!​
As a national award winning choreographer, she continues to refine her craft through workshops and seminars.
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