Sophia Paal-Schmucker
Omaha,NE
Summary
Elevating dance educator, I mastered classroom leadership, dance technique by significantly boosting student retention by creating inclusive, engaging programs. My approach, blending rigorous instruction with positive reinforcement, has been pivotal in fostering student growth and reducing injuries, showcasing a commitment to excellence and innovation in dance instruction. Adaptable dance educator with in-depth knowledge and multifaceted abilities. Leads successful classes with richly diverse learners focused on personal development, artistry, self confidence and proficient technique. Maintains current records according to class protocols and grades students fairly.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Dance Instructor
The Paradigm Dance Complex
06.2022 - 09.2024
- Planned and oversaw group, couples, and individual dance performances.
- Offered one-on-one instruction to students by appointment.
- Planned, prepared, and delivered lesson plans introducing students to dance techniques and ballet positions.
- Provided one-on-one coaching sessions for competition preparation, leading to numerous awards and accolades for students.
- Implemented injury prevention strategies during warm-ups and cool-downs, ensuring safe practice for all participants.
- Promoted creative expression to encourage students to explore dance as art and self expression through movement.
- Assessed student progress regularly to identify students needing individualized help, provide feedback and select suitable material for dancers.
- Conducted classes and workshops for students on special topics of interest.
- Developed strong relationships with students, encouraging them to develop self-confidence through the art of dance.
- Provided private lessons for advanced dancers seeking more specialized instruction or audition preparation assistance.
- Maintained accurate records of attendance, performance evaluations, and lesson plans for effective classroom management.
- Implemented injury-prevention techniques into daily warm-ups and stretches to promote healthy dancing habits among students.
- Guided students through preparation and application process for dance schools and scholarships, resulting in numerous successful admissions.
- Strengthened students' stage presence and performance skills with targeted coaching, leading to accolades in local and regional dance competitions.
- Adapted teaching strategies during remote learning phases, ensuring uninterrupted and effective dance education.
- Implemented injury prevention and conditioning programs, markedly reducing incidence of dance-related injuries among students.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Dance Instructor
Rennae's School of Dance and Acrobatics
02.2022 - 01.2024
- Strengthened students' stage presence and performance skills with targeted coaching, leading to accolades in local and regional dance competitions.
- Maintained dynamic and updated knowledge base of dance theory and practice, contributing to personal growth and expertise in teaching.
- Continually sought professional development opportunities to stay current with industry trends and maintain a high level of expertise in teaching dance techniques.
- Encouraged creativity through improvisation exercises and composition assignments, allowing students to express themselves artistically beyond traditional technique instruction.
- Conducted classes and workshops for students on special topics of interest.
- Taught and explained choreography by breaking down steps and demonstrating moves.
- Provided constructive corrections to encourage students to learn steps and improve dancing.
- Planned routines for recitals and performances.
- Established strong rapport among peers by actively participating in staff meetings and contributing valuable insights towards program development.
Dance Instructor
Core Dance Company
02.2021 - 05.2022
- Utilized different styles of teaching to accommodate students of all capabilities.
- Planned routines for recitals and performances.
- Maintained open communication channels with parents, providing regular updates on their child''s progress and addressing any concerns promptly.
- Increased student retention rate with engaging choreography that challenged their abilities while maintaining enjoyment.
- Motivated and encouraged students to practice dance routines to work toward set goals.
- Conducted classes and workshops for students on special topics of interest.
- Enhanced student performance by implementing creative and engaging dance routines.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Promoted inclusivity by adapting lessons for individuals with varying physical abilities or limitations without sacrificing rigor or quality of instruction.
Dance Instructor
Dance Studio Of Park Slope
10.2018 - 06.2019
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Enhanced students' understanding and love for dance by designing and implementing diverse and inclusive curriculum tailored to various skill levels.
- Cultivated positive and encouraging learning environment, leading to increased student confidence and performance quality.
- Adapted lesson plans to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities, ensuring each student''s needs were met within the classroom setting.
- Met needs of different students by adapting teaching materials and methods.
- Worked in team-based environment to uphold quality and continuity of service to clients.
Education
Ballet Nebraska II
Omaha, NEUniversal Ballet Competition
Miramar, FLA & A Ballet
Chicago, ILPilates Certification -
Club Pilates
Omaha, NE06.2025
Training Program - Dance
Joffrey Ballet School
New York, NY09.2017
Nashville Ballet - Offered Trainee Position
Nashville, TN06.2017
Skills
- Choreography expertise
- Positive Reinforcement
- Organization
- Teaching techniques
- Performance Coaching
- Injury Prevention
- Classroom leadership
- Student Mentoring
- Competition Preparation
- One-on-one teaching
- Performance background
- Group dance instruction
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Creating Choreography
- Lesson Planning
- Dance background
- Student Engagement
- Mentoring
Timeline
Dance Instructor
The Paradigm Dance Complex
06.2022 - 09.2024
Dance Instructor
Rennae's School of Dance and Acrobatics
02.2022 - 01.2024
Dance Instructor
Core Dance Company
02.2021 - 05.2022
Dance Instructor
Dance Studio Of Park Slope
10.2018 - 06.2019
Ballet Nebraska II
Universal Ballet Competition
A & A Ballet
Pilates Certification -
Club Pilates
Training Program - Dance
Joffrey Ballet School
Nashville Ballet - Offered Trainee Position
Similar Profiles
KATHERINE SAENGERHAUSENKATHERINE SAENGERHAUSEN
Quality Audit Specialist at Paradigm Complex Care SolutionsQuality Audit Specialist at Paradigm Complex Care Solutions
Katherine SaengerhausenKatherine Saengerhausen
Quality Audit Specialist at Paradigm Complex Care SolutionsQuality Audit Specialist at Paradigm Complex Care Solutions
Faith McCullyFaith McCully
Dance Instructor at The Edge Dance ComplexDance Instructor at The Edge Dance Complex
Teresa FoxTeresa Fox
Job Title Senior Application Systems Analyst at Metropolitan Community CollegeJob Title Senior Application Systems Analyst at Metropolitan Community College
Tony LivingstonTony Livingston
National Sales Account Executive at HeadsettersNational Sales Account Executive at Headsetters