I am Angela Merrill, and I am the Lakewood High School Dance Director. I transferred to LHS in the 2023-2024 school year from Wilson High School, where I taught American Sign Language for eight years. I teach all levels of dance, which has brought me back full circle from my dance career before becoming a classroom teacher. I am a product of Long Beach Unified School District and a fourth-generation Wilson High School Alumni. I danced all four years at Wilson as part of Advanced Dance and knew that someday, I would want to be doing exactly what I get to do today-- inspire a new generation of high school dancers like my former teachers did for me.

My grandmother opened the now longest-standing dance studio in Long Beach, now known as Studio M (previously Marrillyn McDowell Studio of Dance, then MMSDance) and I got my start dancing there when I was just three years old and I have never stopped! I've had a part in most facets of the studio since then as a student, teacher, choreographer, receptionist, administrator, events coordinator, show planner, tech guru, and stage manager! My first career was in the entertainment industry. I have worked as a professional guest choreographer and teacher at local high schools and dance studios, performed in musical theater productions, and worked as a performer in entertainment at the Disneyland Resort. 

My second career has surrounded the education field. Professionally, I have been in several leadership roles, including chairperson for different site committees, a union rep for my colleagues, department chair, and EdTech Coordinator for my former site. I have a bachelor's degree in Deaf Studies and two master's degrees, one in Educational Technology and one in Curriculum Design and Instruction. I am now well into the coursework requirements for a PhD and the surrounding curriculum. I am passionate about sharing the love of learning and encouraging student success in the many forms that it comes in. 

It has been an absolute joy combining my love of dance and performing with my love of education and learning. This dream is one that is only made better by sharing it with all of the dancers here at Lakewood High School. I am looking forward to continuing on this journey with you! 

Angela Merrill