Woodland Dance Studio

Information may not be reliable

Mission Statement:

To provide artistic dance training of the highest possible caliber in a caring environment, offering students of all ages a positive learning experience that is constantly evaluated for potential improvement.

Ginny’s philosophy of dance education:

Our job as dance educators is not only to teach dance, but provide opportunities for students to be good citizens and learn how to be a contributing member of a group working towards a common goal that is bigger than the individual.

Ginny Shank

Starting dance classes at the age of 4 in New York, Ginny was fortunate to have studied ballet and tap with some of the best instructors/professional performers in the business. Her family moved to Juneau, Alaska when she was in high school, and she continued dancing there and in college. She earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Health and Physical Education and a Masters degree in Education from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon. Ginny taught health and physical education in private and public schools in Oregon and Alaska and coached high school gymnastics and dance team. Her education, training and experience as a teacher sets the tone for WDS classes. She has high expectations for students, believes in lots of positive reinforcement and enjoys sharing her love and passion for all forms of dance with students. Since opening Woodland Dance Studio in 1987, she has attended classes, workshops and seminars every year to expand her knowledge; kept up with new ideas and theories as well as studied with master teachers. Ginny’s goal is to help dancers enjoy becoming the best that they can be.

Why Dance ?

Dance develops the individual physically, artistically, intelectually, emotionally and socially. Dance Students join an artistic family where they develop enduring friendships and nurture a passion for the arts. While having fun, dance students gain many benefits:
Physical : Balance and Coordination; Structured Physical Activity; Correct Posture, Alignment; Strength & Flexibility; Athleticism and Kinesthetic Awareness
Artistic: Self expression; Creativity; Communication; Aesthetic Awareness; Musicality
Intellectual: Critical thinking Skills; Problem Solving; Time Management; Concentration and Focus; Self-discipline
Emotional: Confidence - Commitment - Dtermination - Self-respect - Joy and excitement
Social: Camaraderie; Responsibility; Respect for Others; Teamwork; Tolerance
Dance education inspires good work habits and healthy lifestyle choices. Studies show that a structured dance program enhances academic achievement. At every age and ability dancing is exciting and joyful. Copywrite UNITY, Inc. 2007

Thursday, August 26 or Friday, August 27 from 2:00-6:00pm please come to Woodland Dance Studio at 4115 Woodland Drive, to complete/update registration information (including emergency contacts, medical and school information, and payment information – see Policies), pay the $5 registration fee and be fitted for the required shoes: Rhythm/Movement ballet shoes; Creative Dance – no shoes (girls wear footless tights); 5 yr. old Discover Tap and all Tap classes need tap shoes. Payment must be made for shoe orders at time of ordering. You will also receive current class schedule information.

Communication

The majority of the information that WDS needs to send to you will be through e-mail. Newsletters and billing will be sent to your e-mail address, so please make sure you check your e-mail messages. Communication is a two way street, so please inform the studio via e-mail of any changes that will affect the information flow. If you do not have an e-mail address, then communications will be mailed to you via the postal service. Please do not hesitate to call the studio (486-5250) if you have a question that needs an immediate answer.

"We left our home to come to Kodiak on 2006 and our daughter was reluctant to continue dance after we moved. Ms. Ginny and the Woodland staff were very patient, inviting and friendly without losing their structure and my daughter now cannot imagine practicing dance anywhere else."