Areas of Expertise & Current Classes

AREAS OF EXPERTISE & CURRENT CLASSES

Movement Classes

Carla has facilitated movement classes for students as young as two and for adults who are well into their golden years. In her classes, students are encouraged to be curious about how their body moves and to nurture a sense of joy and celebration of their own unique body. The class environment is non-competitive and focuses on building community connections as well as individual growth. Classes are offered in several genres: creative movement, modern, tap dance, jazz dance, and yoga.

Teacher Training

Designed especially for the early childhood educator, Carla offers teacher training workshops and staff development for incorporating creative movement into the preschool classroom. In these workshops, staff can learn about the elements of movement and the important role of kinesthetic learning in child development. Carla is also a certified Content Expert Trainer for childhood care and education through Achieve MN Center for Professional Development and Think Small/Childcare Aware.

CURRENT CLASSES

Tappy Hour: Tap Dance For Wellness

Build brainpower, bone mass, and balance while exploring the art and culture of American Tap Dance. This is a low impact dance class offered in partnership with Keane Sense of Rhythm (KSR). This class is designed for adults.

Tap classes are being offered through both St. Paul Community Education and Richfield Community Education and at KSR. Check out their websites to register!

"Watching my children bloom with Carla is one of my absolute favorite parts of the week! The anticipation of her class sets the entire house abuzz!!"

- Claire B., parent of creative movement students

My Approach

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Education

Communication Arts & Literature Education (5-12), Dance Minor. Winona State University
Dance & Theater Education (K-12). Minnesota State University- Mankato
Holistic Health Studies (Master's Certificate). Saint Catherine's University.
Yoga Teacher Certificate (RYT 200) Sun Moon Yoga Studios, Mankato, MN
Content Expert Trainer for Achieve MN Center for Professional Development & Think Small/Childcare Aware- supports the Childhood Care and Education Workforce

Experience

Tap Dance for Wellness Teacher- In collaboration with Keane Sense of Rhythm (2020-present)
Creative Movement Teacher for Zen Montessori, Minneapolis, MN
Adjunct Faculty-Dance. MN State University-Mankato. (2003-2006, 2008)
Dance Specialist/Literature Teacher. Buffalo Arts High School (2006-2008)
Dance Teacher. Mankato Ballet Company. (2008-2010).
Dance & Theater Specialist. Anoka Middle School for the Arts (2010-2013).
Early Childhood Teacher & Movement Specialist. Grace Neighborhood Nursery School. (2013-2020).
Yoga Teacher. (since 2003) Various programs and schools, including Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery through the Yoga Sanctuary.
Movement/Yoga Specialist. Govenaires Drum & Bugle Corps. (2013-2015)
Guest choreographer and teacher for various universities, public & private schools, & community theater programs.

Volunteer Work

Board Member: Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council (2005-2006)
Board Member: Twin Rivers Council for the Arts (2009-2010)
Several years of grant writing for various art organizations
Membership: MN Dance Educator Coalition
Membership: Yoga Alliance (RYT 200)

Carla continues to choreograph and perform with the Rural Route Dance Ensemble.