Our Instructors

Jillian Fader

“Miss Jilli”

Owner & Dance Teacher

Jillian began dancing before the age of three at the Patti Finelli School of Dance. She earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Biology with a minor in Dance from Youngstown State University. Jillian taught science at Girard High School for seven years and coached the majorette line for eight seasons. A certified member of Dance Masters of Ohio and Dance Masters of America, she is also Acrobatic Arts Level 1 certified and a member of the National Dance Educator Association. Jillian has organized 'The Beat' fundraiser twice for the American Heart Association, combining her love of dance with community service.

Erica Hays

Dance & Acro Instructor

Erica holds a B.A. in Dance Management and is Acrobatic Arts certified. She has performed with the Cleveland Dance Project and brings a wealth of professional dance experience to her teaching. Her classes combine technical precision with creative expression.

Hailey Gelzheiser

Dance, Modern & Musical Theater Instructor

Hailey earned her B.A. in Dance Management from Youngstown State University. She holds Dance Masters certifications and brings a dynamic approach to Modern and Musical Theater instruction, helping students discover their performance potential.

Timmy Campbell

Dance & Hip-Hop Instructor

With over 10 years of martial arts and dance experience, Timmy brings high-energy instruction to every class. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminology and a Master's in Mental Health Clinical Counseling, giving him a unique perspective on youth mentorship through movement.

Melissa Malone

Ballet & Pointe Instructor

Melissa brings 30 years of teaching experience to The Dancing School. She holds a BFA in Dance Performance and Education and a Master's degree in Leadership and Teaching. Melissa currently serves as Principal and Director of Special Services in Windham, balancing her administrative career with her passion for ballet education.

Deanna Daniels

Acro Instructor

Deanna has over 15 years of experience at Olympic Dreams Gymnastics and taught acro at James Dance from 2012 to 2015. Her gymnastics background provides students with a strong foundation in acrobatic technique and safety.

Seth Nycum

Acro Instructor

Seth brings more than 10 years of gymnastics teaching experience from Olympic Dreams Gymnastics. He is also a performer with the YSU Dance Ensemble, combining his gymnastics expertise with artistic dance expression.

Michelle Hartman

Acro Instructor

Michelle is a first-year member of The Dancing School staff. A graduate of Studio L, she also serves as a substitute instructor at local studios, bringing fresh perspective and enthusiasm to acro instruction.

Tina Brown

Advanced Baton Instructor

A retired educator with 48 years of baton, majorette, and flag experience, Tina is an NBTA registered judge. Her decades of expertise make her one of the most experienced baton instructors in the region, and she brings a wealth of competition knowledge to her students.