About Ms. Hannah Battista

 

At Mary Help Since
2021

Years in Education: 16 years of teaching experience in education, including private schools, public schools, and dance studios

Education
BFA Dance - Montclair State University, 2015
MA Dance Education - New York University Steinhardt, 2018 

Certifications
American Ballet Theatre (ABT) National Training Curriculum (NTC) Pre-Primary - Level 5 

CE Teacher of Vocational Arts/Dance #4068

Summary of Experience
After completing my bachelors degree (BFA) in Dance, I performed professionally for about 4 years, while furthering my education to receive my Masters degree (MA) in Dance Education and an additional certification with American Ballet Theatre. I started teaching at the age of 17, continuing throughout college and my professional career. My experience as a dance educator includes working with Dance New Jersey's Dance To Learn Program for public schools, working in dance studios, and working in private high school education. I have experience working with students from as young as 2 years old and as old as adults, including high school students with a variety of IEP's. In addition, I have written curriculum and taught teacher trainings for dance studios to improve their programs and dancer growth. Learning from and working closely with professional dance teachers throughout my career, in addition to hands on experience has shaped my teaching philosophy and passion for dance education. 

Personal Message
I have never enjoyed teaching dance more than I do when I am at Mary Help! Together with my students, I have been able to develop a dance program that helps bring girls together who have both beginner and pre-professional level dance experience. My goal is to teach girls how to work hard and work together, to execute correct technique in their training and choreography. This gives them the confidence they need to perform on stage and emotionally connect to the audience during their performance. I am so proud of each of m students, and enjoy seeing their growth as they become better dancers each year. I hope to inspire the girls to enjoy and find their own passion for dance.