Jaclyn has a great passion for dance and a loving heart for teaching children. She knew at a young age that she wanted to teach dance, and worked very hard to pursue that dream. Jaclyn began her dance education at Grayson School of Dance but when that studio closed she followed her teacher, to Lawrenceville School of Ballet under the direction of Phyllis Allen. While there, she performed with the Gwinnett Dance Ensemble performing in such ballets as “The Jungle Book” and many other shows. Jaclyn continued her pursuit of dance by majoring in dance at Brenau University, where she studied under Carol Smiarowski, Vincas Greene and Jolie Long. Plus, she danced with the Brenau Dance Ensemble, performed in student choreographed pieces at An Evening of Dance, as well as worked with the music program to be one of three chosen dancers in an opera. While at Brenau, Jaclyn taught under the guidance of Diane Callahan and others at Gainesville Ballet. She also attended the American College Dance Festival, and worked the festival in multiple aspects when it was hosted at Brenau in 2000. Upon graduating Cum Laude with a B.F.A. in Dance Pedagogy in 2000, Jaclyn continued to teach at dance studios in the greater Atlanta area. She started up classes, such as modern and lyrical and rejuvenated Ballet and Pointe programs and revamped the pre-school program to double the enrollment. She continues to teach at a Dance Academy and directs their performance company. As a mom of two daughters, Jaclyn understands both the teacher and mom sides of watching children develop a love for dance. She is excited to be a part of Creative Movement and Dance and to share her love of dance with all the young dancers!
