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About Our Staff

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Christie Neilson

Owner/Director

Christie has been the owner for over 25 years. She taught dance for 20 years and now oversees the business. She has over 35 years in dance, physical fitness and teaching experience. She has a BS degree in Dance, Physical Education and Recreational Therapy. She is also a certified teacher for public schools. She has taught Middle School Drill team, High School Dance classes, and Dance Therapy as a therapist. She enjoys the outdoors and has participated in many outdoor activities. She has traveled all over the US teaching in many states dance and Physical Education."My mission is to have every student feel the positive effects of dance and Physical Ed in their lives." She enjoys spending her spare time with her husband and children.

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Jamie Cooper

Assistant Director

Jamie has been teaching with Jazzerettes and Gymtyme since 2013.  After five years of teaching she transitioned into a new role as Assistant Director. She is excited to still be working with the company and to be able to continue seeing all your children excel at the showcases each year. Jamie has been performing all her life however she didn’t get serous about it until she graduated High School. Upon High School graduation, she started the dance program at Lane Community College in Eugene, Oregon. In 2003 she moved to Roseville, California where she began working with her sister's company and found her passion for Latin and Ballroom dancing. With her dance partner she began traveling the world competing and performing. She did her first international competition in 2004 in Berlin, Germany, and she has won numerous titles since.  Some of her titles include 1st place in both International Latin and Latin American Showdance, and 2nd place in American Smooth and Classic American Showdance at the United States Championships. Currently she holds the title as Female World Champion in American Rhythm and 9-dance. Although she loves to compete and perform, her true love is teaching.  She enjoys sharing her knowledge with others to help them succeed in their own personal goals.  She continues to grow her knowledge in all dance styles and she is always excited when she can share it with others.

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Jordan Gilles

Instructor

Jordan graduated from Franklin High School in the Elk Grove area and currently attends Folsom Lake College. During her free time, she enjoys reading and dancing. She participated in dance lessons starting at age 5 and continued her passion for dance through her high school dance team. From choreographing her own pieces to learning complex choreography from fellow peers–Jordan has extensive experience within the dance world. She loves the thrill of preparing for performances and presenting her skills alongside people she loves. Jordan is thrilled to contribute her knowledge of dance, providing the kids an understanding of various techniques while keeping it exciting.

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Aarti Chandra

Instructor

Miss Aarti is a California native who has lived in the Sacramento area since 2001. She is a certified yoga teacher with a passion for play and dance. Her formal education includes coursework in psychology, natural science, and early childhood education. Her intention is for each student to leave class feeling connected to themselves through music, movement, and fun. She motto is simple "Let's dance!" 

Our Staff: Dance Company
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