Hello! My name is Maxine, and I am a professional dancer, dance educator, and choreographer. I love teaching dance to children of all ages, and finding creative methods to learning. I believe in the healing and uplifting power of movement, using dance as a form of communication and connection, and in the necessity of an arts education. I am committed to helping that be a reality for as many students as possible. Throughout my work as an educator, I have come to understand and value using a student-centered approach, improvising if the needs of my students are different than anticipated and respecting their individuality and learning styles.

I have extensive experience in classical ballet, and have trained since age 4. I have also trained thoroughly in contemporary and modern techniques, including Contemporary Ballet, Horton, Limón, Improvisation, and Release Technique, and obtained my BFA degree in Dance from Dominican University of California. I have been teaching for the past five years. I have taught in various studios in the Bay Area and Chicagoland Area, as well as abroad in Mexico and Guatemala. I am also a certified GYROTONIC® instructor, a movement system with similarities to dance, Pilates, gymnastics, and Tai chi, and have taught private sessions for the past three years.

My teaching style is structured, warm, patient, passionate, and focused. I am very excited to be teaching on Outschool, and to be offering virtual classes in this setting. My classes are inclusive, meaning that students of all backgrounds and abilities are welcome. 

Aside from dance, I enjoy spending time outside in nature, learning about plants, gardening, editing dance films, reading books, and cooking new things. I also have my TEFL certificate and enjoy helping people learn English, as I am attempting to learn Spanish.

Please feel free to reach out with questions, a different requested time, or if your learner needs any accommodations. I'm happy to work together to find a solution and ensure they get the most out of my classes. I hope to meet and dance with your children very soon!