BDC INSTRUCTOR BIO'S
MISS LAUREN
HEAD COMPETITIVE COACHAs an experienced dancer for over 20 years, Lauren brings experience in multiple styles of dance including Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, Acro and Ballet. As a qualified dance teacher/director/ choreographer for 15 years, obtaining training under the ADAPT syllabus as well as Acrobatic Arts.
Lauren has been successful in receiving several special awards for her choreography through the years. Through her choreography, she takes pride in being able to highlight her dancers strengths and qualities while also challenging their growth and development.
Lauren spends a large amount of time dedicated to teaching dance, but is also a Registered Practical Nurse at Chatham Kent Health Alliance.
Lauren believes in putting emphasis on building dancers who are prepared and confident will help define and build their character in any aspects of their life. She feels it is important for her students to be motivated and inspired at all times in an environment they are comfortable in. She serves as a mentor, providing the tools, guidance, support and feedback required to draw talent, and ability out of her dancers.
Lauren is excited to be able to continue her teaching career in the community.
MISS KAITLYN
HEAD RECREATIONAL COACH & PART-TIME COMPETITIVE INSTRUCTORKaitlyn kicked off her dance journey at Debbie McGonigle School of Dance (DMSD) when she was just 3 years old. Following Debbie's retirement and studio closure, Kaitlyn transitioned to new studios to further her training in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Contemporary, and Modern styles.
Teaching for over 5 years since the age of 13, Kaitlyn has honed her skills, including completing training in the ADAPT syllabus, always seeking opportunities for growth as both a dancer and instructor.
Community involvement holds significance for Kaitlyn, as she actively participates in local events and volunteers with the Blenheim Blades Jr C Hockey Team.
Teaching for over 5 years since the age of 13, Kaitlyn has honed her skills, including completing training in the ADAPT syllabus, always seeking opportunities for growth as both a dancer and instructor.
Community involvement holds significance for Kaitlyn, as she actively participates in local events and volunteers with the Blenheim Blades Jr C Hockey Team.
Excited to continue her teaching journey, Kaitlyn looks forward to sharing her dance passion with the dancers at BDC in the upcoming years!
MISS AVERY
PART-TIME COMPETITIVE INSTRUCTORAvery, a seasoned performer, embarked on her dance journey at the tender age of 3. Over the years, she has trained under various choreographers and instructors, mastering an array of styles like Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Acro.
Judges at numerous competitions have applauded Avery for her performances, emotional depth, and connection with both music and audience, recognizing her true passion for dance.
Starting as an assistant teacher 5 years ago, Avery swiftly transitioned to lead her own classes, showcasing a remarkable bond with her students and peers both in and out of the studio. Her teaching style emphasizes positive reinforcement and a dedicated commitment to her dancers' success, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Avery is currently enrolled in the Social Work Services Program at a post secondary level, however, Avery's enthusiasm for dance remains unwavering.
With an evident love for dance, Avery is thrilled to join BDC's faculty, eager to inspire her students to discover their own dance passion through hard work and dedication.
MISS AISLYNN
PART-TIME COMPETITIVE INSTRUCTORAislynn's dance career began at the age of 3. Starting recreationally then transitioning to competitive the first chance she got! She has been recognized for her hip hop technique and groove at multiple competitions throughout her dance career.
Hip hop has always come naturally to Aislynn, however she has trained in many styles including: jazz, contemporary, ballet and tap.
Aislynn is a student at St Clair College and is obtaining her Sports and Recreation Management Degree. Courses of study include sport event planning, sales and marketing, facility management, and business administrative positions within professional sport.
Aislynn is excited to combine the world of dance and the world of sport's management together.
Aislynn is excited to be joining BDC's team of instructors and can't wait to get in the studio with all of our dancers!
MISS SHAY
ACRO & TUMBLING COACHMiss Shay Ireland Heidt, also known as Miss Shay to many, is a gymnastics and cheer coach with 32 years of experience.
Shay has been instrumental in introducing new acro skills to Chatham-Kent dancers and helping athletes experience the thrill of going upside down.
As a mother of 4 and a proud Blenheim resident, Miss Shay is passionate about inspiring her athletes and children to perform and live freely.
She finds joy in witnessing the smiles on her athletes' faces when they master a new trick. Miss Shay's goal is to support, nurture, and advance BDC dancers in acro skills, guiding them through tumbles, twists, and turns.
She finds joy in witnessing the smiles on her athletes' faces when they master a new trick. Miss Shay's goal is to support, nurture, and advance BDC dancers in acro skills, guiding them through tumbles, twists, and turns.
With a diploma in Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Assistance, along with certifications in Child and Youth Development, Level 3 coaching in women's Gymnastics, Level 2 in Men's and Trampoline, and Level 5 in cheer tumbling, Miss Shay brings a wealth of expertise to her coaching.
Shay is dedicated to growing and giving back to her community and you can be sure to find her volunteering for or supporting local fundraisers.
MISS LACEY
PART-TIME RECREATIONAL INSTRUCTORLacey, a dedicated dancer, has immersed herself in the world of dance for 7 years, learning the artistry of hip hop along many other styles such as tap, jazz, and contemporary.
Her love for these genres is evident in her performances, where she captivates audiences with her skill and passion.
Lacey’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed; her exceptional hip hop technique and outstanding performances have garnered special recognition, resulting in a collection of high scores and special awards that reflect her talent and dedication to the craft.
BDC would like to welcome Lacey as an addition to our recreational program!
MISS GRISEL
SUMMER ACRO COACH
Hi, I'm Grisel, a student at Brock University studying Education.
With 4 years of experience as a trained NCCP Foundations gymnastics coach and 11 years as a competitive gymnast, I'm eager to share my expertise.
Coaching has shown me the profound impact even the smallest details can have on an athletes life.
I can't wait to bring my passion for teaching, gymnastics and dance to the talented dancers at BDC!
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