Dance & Gym Expressions: Where Students Become Family
When Jenny Jones began teaching at Dance & Gym Expressions (D&G) in 2000, she couldn't have imagined that she would become the owner of the cherished dance and gymnastics studio two decades later. Yet, when founder Sandra Childress decided to retire in 2020, she entrusted her legacy to Jenny, who had transformed from employee to family over their years working together.
"I've always had a passion for dance and working with/taking care of younger children, so why not combine the two and teach dance?" Jenny shares, reflecting on her career path that began in high school. Her journey took an unexpected turn during college when an injury forced her to "chair dance" rather than perform. This experience sparked a new perspective: "This brought to my attention the idea of teaching dance that is accessible to all."
Today, D&G Expressions offers various dance and gymnastics instruction styles to students of all abilities, ages 1 to 99. Jenny's commitment to inclusive teaching led her to become certified by Rhythmworks Integrative Dance to instruct students with special needs. The studio prides itself on a diverse staff trained not just in dance and gymnastics but also in supporting students holistically.
"At D&G, our students aren't just students, they're family. We truly care about their physical, mental, and emotional well-being," Jenny explains. This philosophy permeates everything at the studio, creating a nurturing environment where students feel reassured, confident, and above all, valued and supported.
"So many kids today feel isolated, anxious, out of sorts. We want to ensure we are a safe, comfortable place where they feel part of a group, can relax, and just be themselves."
The studio's family-centered approach extends to Jenny's own family. Both of her daughters have taught at D&G, and now her grandchildren take classes there. The studio hosts several community events throughout the year, including a Father-Daughter Dance, Parents' Night Out events, and day camps during school breaks.
For Jenny, the students remain at the heart of everything she does. "My students are my biggest inspiration! Their enthusiasm inspires me to continue learning more, so I can teach them more." This dedication to continual improvement drives her to seek ongoing training to provide the highest quality instruction.
Perhaps most telling is Jenny's genuine love for her work: "I truly enjoy going to work, seeing students' smiling faces, hugs from the little ones, celebrating all the 'I did it' moments– I’ve always said, 'I have the best job in the world."
With classes designed for all ages and abilities, D&G Expressions continues to grow under Jenny's leadership, upholding the studio's long tradition of technical excellence wrapped in a warm, family atmosphere where every student can thrive.
