Student Teacher Education Program
The S.T.E.P Program at Great Lakes Dance Academy is a leadership and teacher-training pathway for dedicated students who are interested in learning what it means to assist, lead, and teach in a dance classroom.
Through mentorship, hands-on classroom experience, and guided training, S.T.E.P students develop confidence, responsibility, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of dance education. This program is designed for dancers who want to grow as leaders while supporting younger students in a positive, encouraging, and professional studio environment.
What Students Learn
S.T.E.P students receive training in:
- Classroom leadership and assistant responsibilities
- Supporting younger dancers with kindness and confidence
- Dance class structure, preparation, and transitions
- Studio safety and student supervision
- Attendance procedures using Jackrabbit
- Communication with teachers and staff
- Professionalism, reliability, and role modelling
- Teaching foundations for beginner-level classes
S.T.E.P Levels
S.T.E.P 1: Assistant
S.T.E.P 1 students begin by learning how to support a teacher in the classroom. They help with class flow, student focus, transitions, and creating a welcoming environment for younger dancers.
S.T.E.P 2: Lead Assistant
S.T.E.P 2 students take on more responsibility and begin developing stronger leadership skills. They may help demonstrate exercises, support small groups, assist with classroom management, and act as a trusted role model for younger students.
S.T.E.P 3: Student Teacher
S.T.E.P 3 students are ready for advanced leadership and may begin learning how to plan, lead, and support beginner-level instruction under teacher guidance. Students at this level may be considered for future paid teaching opportunities, camps, or beginner class leadership roles.
Certification Pathway
Students may work toward:
- S.T.E.P 1 Completion Certificate
- S.T.E.P 2 Leadership Certificate
- S.T.E.P 3 Student Teacher Certification
Progression through the program is based on readiness, responsibility, consistency, leadership, and teacher evaluation.
Who Should Apply?
S.T.E.P is ideal for dancers who are responsible, kind, dependable, and excited to work with younger students. Applicants should enjoy helping others, be willing to learn, and understand that being part of STEP means representing Great Lakes Dance Academy with maturity and care.
Applicants should be entering at least Grade 6 in September 2026. The STEP Program accepts a maximum of 12 dancers each season.
Interested in S.T.E.P?
Dancers interested in joining the S.T.E.P Program are invited to complete the application form by Wednesday, June 10th.
Applicants should be entering at least Grade 6 in September 2026. Please note that the STEP Program accepts a maximum of 12 dancers each season, so we encourage interested dancers to apply early.
STEP Application Form: