For ages 11+

  At ZION School of Performing Arts, we believe dance education extends far beyond technique. We are passionate about developing young people who lead with excellence, serve with humility, and inspire others through their character.

 The ZION Teacher Training Program is a comprehensive leadership and teacher development program designed to prepare students for future teaching opportunities within the studio. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and intentional training, participants develop the skills necessary to become confident leaders, including effective teaching techniques, classroom management, communication, safety, and servant leadership.

At ZION, we believe great leaders are developed over time. Rather than waiting until adulthood, students are given age-appropriate opportunities to serve and lead, beginning at age 11. As they grow in maturity, knowledge, and experience, they are entrusted with increasing levels of responsibility. Advancement is earned through demonstrated competency, strong character, and a heart to serve.

To provide the best learning experience for both our leaders and our students participants are always assigned to teach or assist classes with dancers who are younger than themselves. This progression allows them to develop confidence, gain valuable teaching experience, and mentor younger students in a supportive, supervised environment.

This program is intended for students who have a genuine passion for teaching and mentoring others. While participants are not expected to pursue teaching as a career, they should have a sincere desire to learn how to instruct, encourage, and positively influence younger dancers. Admission is by application and interview, and enrollment is limited based on the needs of the studio and available assistant positions.

"And the things you have heard from me... entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others also." - 2 Timothy 2:2

Student Helper (Recommended Ages 11-12)

Students begin learning the value of serving others while assisting in age-appropriate ways.

Student Helpers may:

• Welcome students to class
• Assist with studio set-up and clean-up
• Help organize equipment and props
• Demonstrate basic exercises
• Lead stretches and warm-ups when invited
• Encourage younger dancers
• Observe experienced instructors and assistants

At this stage, the focus is on developing responsibility, confidence, teamwork, and a servant's heart.

Class Assistant (Recommended Ages 13–14)

As students grow in maturity, they begin taking on more active leadership responsibilities under the supervision of an instructor.

Class Assistants may:

• Assist in weekly classes
• Lead warm-ups and conditioning
• Demonstrate skills and combinations
• Help students stay focused and engaged
• Assist with class organization and transitions
• Review choreography with small groups
• Begin learning spotting techniques under direct supervision

Training includes:

• Classroom management
• Positive encouragement and corrections
• Child development
• Professionalism
• Communication skills
• Studio expectations and safety

Teacher in Training (Minimum Age 15)

Students who demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and technical proficiency may be invited into the Teacher in Training program.

Teacher in Training participants receive practical instruction in:

• Teaching methodology
• Lesson planning
• Safe spotting techniques
• Classroom management
• Child development
• Effective communication
• Conflict resolution
• Parent interactions
• Studio policies and procedures
• Professional ethics

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, teachers in training begin leading portions of classes, assisting with choreography, mentoring younger students, and developing the confidence and skills needed to teach effectively.

Lead Instructor (Minimum Age 16)

Students who have successfully completed the program's requirements and consistently demonstrate maturity, professionalism, strong teaching ability, and a commitment to ZION's values may be invited to serve as Lead Instructors.

Lead Instructors are expected to:

• Teach classes independently
• Maintain a safe and positive learning environment
• Communicate professionally with families
• Mentor assistants and Teachers in Training
• Represent ZION with integrity, excellence, and Christ-like character

Appointment as a Lead Instructor is based on readiness, demonstrated competency, and the recommendation of studio leadership.

  At ZION, leadership is not determined by age alone, it is earned through faithfulness, character, and a willingness to serve.

Students' progress through the Leadership Academy by demonstrating growth in areas such as:

• Teaching and communication
• Classroom leadership
• Technical knowledge
• Safety and spotting
• Professionalism
• Dependability
• Teamwork
• Initiative
• Christ-like character

Each student is mentored and evaluated throughout the process to ensure they are equipped for every new level of responsibility.

MORE THAN DANCE

The program equips students with skills that extend well beyond the studio. Participants develop confidence, public speaking abilities, leadership, responsibility, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, qualities that prepare them for success in college, future careers, ministry, and life. Whether a student dreams of becoming a dance instructor, working with children, pursuing education, or simply growing as a leader, the Leadership Academy provides meaningful opportunities to discover their gifts, develop their potential, and deliver excellence in every area of life.