Our Staff

Studio Director

Director, Tara A. Lennstrom is a member of Dance Masters of America, Dance Educators of America, and Professional Dance Teachers. Miss Tara is a graduate from Dean College where she received her degree in Dance Education. Tara has done choreography for local schools and has numerous performance credits including Eglevsky Nutcracker, Bi-Centennial Liberty Tap Dancer and Sesame Street and Friends. In addition, she has been recognized by "Who's Who in Dance" National Organization. She has led PJDA to our 31st season of dance.

Studio Manager

Miss Anne has been the studio manager here at PJDA for all 31 dance seasons. She helps in all areas of the dance studio and the show would not go on without her! Miss Anne greets dancers at the desk, helps to fit shoes, measures dancers for costumes, assists with costume selection, and the overall business management of PJDA. At our annual recitals, Miss Anne makes sure every student makes their way on stage with their headpieces in and looking 100%! Miss Anne is a major part of what makes PJDA home.

Teacher

Miss Emily danced at PJDA for 15 years before graduating in 2019. She currently works in the Smithtown Central School District as an Academic Intervention Service provider. With PJDA, she has led out a Walt Disney World parade, performed in Times Square, performed on a Broadway stage, performed at a Stony Brook Basketball halftime show, and received a class from the Radio City Rockettes. Miss Emily also runs our dance studio social media! 

Teacher

Miss Kristen grew up dancing at PJDA and then continued her passion for dance as a dance educator. She graduated from St. Joseph's University New York with a degree in Education and is a New York State certified Special Education teacher. Outside of the studio, Miss Kristen spends time with our very own "PJDA Mascot" her dog Ghost. Miss Kristen is a great addition to our PJDA staff as she helps create a warm, friendly, and encouraging learning environment.

Teacher

Miss Jen grew up dancing at PJDA and then continued her passion for dance as a dance educator. She is a mom of two kids and spends her time away from the studio working as a nurse at Sunrise Assisted Living. Miss Jen's daughter dances here at PJDA and she gets to experience both aspects of the studio, dance mom and dance teacher! Miss Jen is a great addition to our PJDA staff and motivates her students to work hard and do their best.

Teaching Assistant

Miss Kaylee has been dancing at PJDA for 17 years and graduated from PJDA in 2021. She is an exceptional role model for young students as she is a well rounded dancer and a respectable young lady. Miss Kaylee has taken every style of dance offered at PJDA and has been involved in community service parades, danced in Walt Disney World parades, Times Square, a Broadway Stage, and a Stony Brook Basketball halftime show. She is the 2021 recipient of our "Dancer of the Year" award and has achieved many perfect attendance awards. Miss Kaylee is a joy to have at PJDA.

Teaching Assistant

Miss Alexandra has been dancing at PJDA for 14 years and is currently a Junior in High School! She is a friend to all and is always looking out for others. Miss Alexandra has taken every style of dance offered at PJDA and has been involved in community service parades, danced in Walt Disney World parades, and a Stony Brook Basketball halftime show. She is the 2022 recipient of our "Dancer of the Year" award and has achieved many perfect attendance awards. Miss Alexandra is a big help here at PJDA, and is always encouraging to her students.

Teaching Assistant

Miss Sam is the newest addition to our PJDA teaching staff! She danced at PJDA for 3 years before graduating in 2022. Miss Sam participated in community service parades, and is now the President of the "Eaglettes" Kickline Club at St. Joseph's University New York. We are so excited to welcome her back to PJDA, now as a member of our teaching staff! Miss Sam is a great role model to all of her students!