Teacher of Teachers: Hiring and Management

Congratulations! You’re a Dance Studio Owner. That means you’ve stepped into a new role I like to call the “Teacher of Teachers.” Your number one responsibility is to inspire, motivate, and equip your staff with the resources they need to succeed.

As a recovering one-woman show, I’ve learned to set up the following foundational elements in my business to streamline hiring and management:

1. Systems

Having a reliable system is key to consistency and efficiency. I use Twinkle Star Dance, a video-based curriculum for my preschool and school-aged classes. It includes monthly themes, skill progressions, and engaging class combinations, making it easy for teachers to deliver high-quality instruction.

2. Annual Training

I host annual training sessions to keep my staff well-prepared and aligned:

• January: Focus on recital choreography.

• May: Prepare for summer camp and review the upcoming season’s curriculum.

• September: Update fall curriculum and rehearse holiday show choreography.

These sessions ensure my team is confident and ready for each phase of the year.

3. Weekly Meetings

Every Tuesday, I hold a standing staff meeting via Zoom. These meetings cover curriculum updates, studio reminders, upcoming events, and any questions or challenges that need addressing. Consistent communication is vital to keeping everyone on the same page.

4. Office Hours

I maintain designated office hours throughout the week for one-on-one meetings with staff. This time allows my team to bring up individual concerns, seek guidance, or collaborate on new ideas in a structured and supportive environment.

Join Me for More Insights

If you’re looking for additional strategies and time to recharge, join me at the Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat July 18-20, 2024, at the Omni Royal Orleans. This weekend getaway is designed to help studio owners reconnect, learn, and grow their businesses.

Check back next week as I share my tips for Gaining a Competitive Edge in a Saturated Market.

Meet Tiffany Henderson

Tiffany Henderson is a leader in the dance industry and a seasoned business expert. She owns and operates multiple Tiffany’s Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in over 300 dance studios worldwide.

Top 5 Pain Points of Owning a Dance Studio: Work/Life Balance

It’s Tuesday and I’m deep in the whirlwind that is January at my dance studios. I’m creating and setting choreography for our spring recitals, running promotions for new students, taking inventory of classes, planning the schedule for the new season, and onboarding new teachers and staff. To keep myself motivated, I glance at my to-do list and add, “Book flights to Paris” for a well-deserved September getaway.

Through my connections with studio owners in the Twinkle Star Dance community, my Diamond Circle coaching clients, and Dance the Dream parade events, I’ve found that many of us face the same five challenges:

1. Work/Life Balance

2. Financial Instability

3. Hiring and Management

4. Gaining a Competitive Edge in Saturated Markets

5. Keeping Up with Trends

Having owned and operated multiple successful studio locations for decades, I’ve experienced my fair share of ups and downs. Here, I’ll focus on the first challenge: Work/Life Balance and offer some practical solutions.

Work/Life Balance

Ask yourself: Is your studio running you, or are you running your studio? If it feels like the studio is in charge, it’s time to make some changes. Here are my top strategies:

1. Set Boundaries

Make a list of your non-negotiables and stick to it. When my children were young, I committed to picking them up from school every day and reserved Thursday evenings for family dinners. These small but significant boundaries ensured I stayed present for my family while managing a thriving business.

2. Treat It Like a Full-Time Job

Hold regular office hours in a dedicated workspace. Identify your most productive times of day and prioritize the one critical task you need to accomplish daily. Consistency in this approach will help you feel more in control of your schedule.

3. Utilize Systems and Delegate

Today’s technology offers countless tools to streamline small business operations. Invest in platforms that simplify scheduling, payroll, and communication. Hire the right team, establish clear processes, and trust them to handle tasks you don’t need to manage personally.

4. Build a Supportive Community

Connect with like-minded studio owners at live events to share ideas and find encouragement. Having a network of peers who understand your challenges can make all the difference during the busiest seasons.

Join Me for More Insights

If you’re looking for actionable advice and a chance to recharge, I invite you to join me at the Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat this summer. It’s happening July 18-20, 2025, at the stunning Omni Royal Orleans in the heart of the French Quarter. This weekend getaway is designed for dance studio owners to reconnect, learn, and grow their businesses.

Check back next week when I’ll share my tips for tackling Financial Instability.

Meet Tiffany Henderson

Tiffany Henderson is a leader in the dance industry and a seasoned business expert. She owns and operates multiple Tiffany’s Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in over 300 dance studios worldwide.

Dance Educators, Gear Up for Success with Pinnacle Dance Conference & Retreat

As we gear up for an exciting new dance season, it’s crucial to reflect on the importance of preparation and professional development. Whether you're a seasoned instructor or just starting out, continuous learning and certification can significantly impact your teaching prowess and the success of your dance studio.

Importance of Dance Teacher Training and Certification

Why is teacher training and certification so vital? Simply put, it ensures that you are equipped with the latest techniques, trends, and educational methodologies in dance instruction. As educators, our role goes beyond just teaching dance steps; we inspire creativity, nurture talent, and shape young minds. Professional training enhances our ability to deliver high-quality education and create meaningful experiences for our students.

Pinnacle Dance Conference & Retreat

I am thrilled to announce an incredible opportunity to elevate your teaching skills: the Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat, hosted by Tiffany Henderson. This year, the conference will be held on July 20-21, 2024, at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. Tiffany Henderson, renowned for her expertise and passion in dance education, offers a comprehensive program designed to empower dance educators like you.

The conference welcomes attendees both in person and virtually, making it accessible for educators worldwide to participate and benefit from Tiffany’s invaluable insights.

Key Highlights and Learning Opportunities

At the conference, Tiffany will share her expert tips on adapting a preschool dance curriculum, a crucial aspect of nurturing young dancers effectively. Her strategies include weekly meetings with teachers, conducting classroom observations, and regular check-ins to ensure alignment and support throughout the season.

These proactive measures not only enhance teaching effectiveness but also foster a collaborative and supportive environment within your dance studio. By implementing Tiffany’s recommendations, you can set the stage for a successful and enriching dance season ahead.

Why Attend?

Attending the Pinnacle Dance Conference isn’t just about professional development; it’s about investing in yourself and your students’ futures. The knowledge and skills gained will not only enrich your teaching but also elevate the overall experience for your students, fostering a lifelong love for dance.

Registration Details

Ready to take your dance teaching to the next level? Register now for the Pinnacle Dance Conference & Retreat. Early registration is encouraged to secure your place and take advantage of this transformative learning opportunity.

For more information and to register, visit Twinkle Star Dance.

As we embark on this new dance season, let’s commit to continuous growth, excellence in education, and creating magical moments for our students. Together, we can make this season the best one yet!

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.

Unlock Your Potential: The Benefits of Dance Teacher Training and Certification

As we stand on the threshold of a new dance season, there’s no better time for dance educators to invest in their growth and development than now. Whether you're an experienced instructor or just starting your journey, dance teacher training and certification can significantly elevate your skills, enrich your teaching methods, and ultimately enhance the dance experience for your students.

Why Invest in Dance Teacher Training?

1. Enhanced Teaching Techniques: Professional training equips you with the latest teaching methodologies and techniques tailored specifically for dance education. From foundational principles to advanced choreography methods, you'll gain invaluable insights that can make a profound difference in how effectively you convey the artistry and technical aspects of dance.

2. Broadened Dance Styles and Genres: A comprehensive training program exposes you to a diverse range of dance styles and genres. Whether it’s ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, or cultural dances, expanding your repertoire allows you to offer a richer and more diverse curriculum to your students.

3. Pedagogical Expertise: Understanding the developmental stages of your students and how to tailor instruction to different age groups is crucial for effective teaching. Teacher training programs often include modules on child development, classroom management, and educational psychology, empowering you to create nurturing and productive learning environments.

4. Networking and Community: Connecting with fellow dance educators can be inspiring and motivating. Teacher training workshops and conferences provide opportunities to network with professionals in the field, share experiences, and collaborate on new ideas. Building these relationships can foster ongoing support and mentorship throughout your career.

5. Professional Recognition and Opportunities: Certification from reputable programs demonstrates your commitment to excellence and professionalism. It can open doors to new career opportunities, including teaching positions at prestigious dance schools, choreographing for performances, or even leading your own studio.

Tiffany Henderson’s Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat 

This July 20-21, 2024, join us for the Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. Hosted by renowned industry expert and dance educator, Tiffany Henderson, Pinnacle promises an exceptional learning experience with two flexible options:

• In-Person Attendance: Immerse yourself in a hands-on learning environment at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain resort. Participate in workshops led by industry experts, engage in practical sessions, and network with fellow dance professionals.

• Virtual Participation: If you prefer to learn from the comfort of your home or studio, virtual attendance is also available. Benefit from live-streamed sessions, interactive discussions, and virtual networking opportunities.

Why Choose Pinnacle Dance Conference?

• Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced educators and dance professionals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise.

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain insights into curriculum development, teaching strategies, choreography techniques, and more, tailored to elevate your teaching practice.

• Inspiring Setting: Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, providing the perfect backdrop for focused learning and relaxation.

How to Register

Ready to take your dance teaching career to new heights? Secure your spot at the Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat by visiting Twinkle Star Dance. 

Investing in your professional development as a dance educator not only benefits you but also enriches the lives of your students. Join us this July for an unforgettable educational experience that will empower you to inspire, educate, and lead with confidence throughout the upcoming dance season and beyond.

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.

Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat: Elevate Your Studio's Potential!

Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat: Elevate Your Studio's Potential!

July 20-21, 2024 The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, Arizona

Congratulations on a magical recital season! We are thrilled to invite you to Tiffany Henderson’s Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat, a premier event designed to empower and inspire dance professionals like you. Whether you prefer to join us in person at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, or participate virtually from anywhere in the world, this event promises two days of unparalleled learning and networking opportunities.

What to Expect:

• Packed Content from Industry Leaders: Benefit from insights and strategies shared by renowned industry experts who are at the forefront of dance education and studio management.

• Exciting New Classes:

• Social and Emotional Development in Preschoolers: Explore innovative approaches to nurturing emotional intelligence in young dancers.

• Taking Risks - From Idea to Implementation: Learn how to effectively innovate and implement new ideas in your studio.

• Studio Owner Only Session: The Power of Positivity: Discover strategies to foster a positive studio culture and leadership mindset.

• Teacher Certification Sessions:

• Twinkle Baby and Me (ages 18 mos - 2 yrs)

• Twinkle Babies (ages 2-3/3-4)

• Twinkle Stars (ages 4-5/5-6)

These teacher certifications will equip you and your teachers with specialized skills to cater to the unique needs of young dancers, enhancing your teaching repertoire and studio offerings.

Why Attend?

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow studio owners and dance professionals from around the globe, building relationships that can lead to collaborations and growth.

• Inspiration and Innovation: Stay ahead of industry trends and gain fresh perspectives to invigorate your teaching methods and business strategies.

• Location: Experience the stunning surroundings and world-class amenities of The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, ensuring a retreat-like atmosphere conducive to learning and relaxation.

Join Us:

Secure your spot today for the Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat and elevate your studio to new heights. Whether you're looking to expand your curriculum, strengthen your leadership skills, or connect with like-minded professionals, this event is designed with your success in mind.

[Register Now]

[Book your Room]

We look forward to welcoming you to this transformative event!

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.