Coach Graham

Welcome to the Dent Middle School Dance Program! I am excited to partner with you and your family this school year. My goal is to create a positive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment where every student feels encouraged to build confidence, express creativity, and grow both as a dancer and as a leader. I believe every student has the ability to succeed, and I look forward to helping each child discover their unique talents while making this an amazing year together.

I discovered my love of dance after attending an African dance performance during my senior year of high school. That experience inspired me to attend Columbia College, where I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Dance. While there, I had the opportunity to study a variety of dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, African, Indian, and many others.

After graduating, I began my professional career in Ballroom and Latin dance at Fred Astaire Dance Studio. In 2007, I opened my own studio, Love of Dance, where I have the privilege of teaching ballroom, Latin, rhythm, hip-hop, jazz, ballet, contemporary, yoga, and line dance to students of all ages. I also founded several performance companies, including the Love of Dance Salsa Company, Mujeres de Fuego, and the Junior Company. These organizations were created to promote collaboration, confidence, and the belief that anyone and everyone can learn to dance.

I later earned my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from South University, followed by my Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) in Educational Administration. I am also pursuing my Doctor of Education, continuing to grow as an educator and educational leader.

My career with Richland School District Two has allowed me to serve in several rewarding roles, including Teaching Assistant, Parent Educator, Dance Teacher at Ridge View High School, and now Dance Teacher at Dent Middle School. With more than 18 years in education, I am passionate about helping students build confidence, creativity, discipline, and leadership through the arts while fostering meaningful relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the community.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, continuing my professional growth, and sharing my passion for dance. I truly believe that with passion, perseverance, and encouragement, every student can achieve success. I look forward to sharing that passion with the students and families of Dent Middle School and making this a wonderful year of learning, creativity, and growth.