Step It Up Dance Academy is owned by a mother daughter duo, Joan and Jody McKee. They started the studio in 2014 and have now grown into their own space. Both Jody and Joan are members of CLI Studios, which allows them to work with the industry's top choreographers and teachers in every style of dance, and continuing their education through these online courses that offeres certifications in teaching dance.
We like to keep our classes smaller so we can spend more individual time working with each student we teach. Step It Up Dance Academy offers a complete dance program for all ages and skill level of dancers, recreational and competitive.
Jody McKee
Owner/Instructor
Jody began her life long passion for dance at the age of two, and never stopped loving it. She has trained at various dance studios around central Nebraska and conventions, where she has learned a wide variety of dance styles and has experience in the competitive world of dance. Jody had also been in gymnastics since the age of two and was a level 8 gymnast. Through out the years Jody was also a member of GISH varsity cheerleader, a member of the Nebraska Danger Dolls, and performed in shows such as "Chicago" for the Grand Island little theater. In 2013 she was accepted for Dance Olympus traveling dance convention program.
Jody began teaching hip hop at the young age of 16, and eventually grow into teaching more classes as her knowledge of dance increased. Jody has multiple dance teaching certifications in various styles from CLI Studios online courses, and is also working on becoming an acrobatics arts certified teacher. Jody's choreography has been recognized and has won numerous awards at many regional dance competitions.
"One of the greatest joys about teaching dance is watching my students grow and improve in every class they take. I take pride in knowing the possibilities can be endless for these young, hard working dancers and the fact that I have impacted their lives in such a positive manner, by showing them the gift of expression thorough dance."
Joan McKee
Co-Owener/Instructor
Joan has been dancing non stop all her life. She has knowledge of many types of dance styles. She started with being a featured dancer on the Big Joe Polka TV Show, was a member of the Starlettes Baton Troupe and a member of the Barb Ingwerson Dancers in her early 20's. Through the years she has taught ballet to competitive roller skaters. She has taken classes at many studios in the area plus attended conventions. She was a champion Artistic Roller Skater and performed nationally. She has taught gymnastics at Twisters in Grand Island for 7 years.
She is a certified USBT Baton Twirling Coach and coached area students in performing at local high schools. Joan is also has certifications in various styles from CLI Studios online courses. She received the Moonshell Larry Maupin Award for teaching students in dance, music, baton, and art. She received the Meritorious Service Award in 4-H this year for working with youth the past 17 years. Joan is also member of the Clogging Connection Cloggers who perform throughout the area.
'"I love giving my passion of dance and creative movement to students in helping them grow in confidence and love of dance"
We thank you for choosing
Step It Up Dance Academy!
-Jody & Joan
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