SHAUNA
JURCZAK

Teaching Philosophy

As a dance educator, I know the lessons I teach transcend the studio walls and stage lights. This is why I believe in a holistic approach to dance, with equal focus placed on physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. Every time I get the opportunity to connect with someone through dance, I know the knowledge shared and instruction given will not just enhance a person’s dance experience, but will be carried with them through life, helping build overall stronger communities.

Experience and Training

I grew up in elite gymnastics, competing until age 18, and took my first ballet class at age 10 to improve my gymnastics performance. Upon retiring from gymnastics, I focused on dance and enjoyed spending my university years with the University of Winnipeg Dance Team, before spending five seasons dancing professionally in the CFL with the Blue Lighting Dance Team. As a dancer, I’m trained in Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, and Acro.

I have over 25 years of experience teaching movement, including gymnastics, dance, and yoga. I also hold a degree in Kinesiology, diploma in communications, and received my adjudicator training through the Canadian Dance Leadership Institute.

The Business of Dance

As the studio owner of Maples Academy of Dance, the business of dance holds a special place for me. I am passionate about creating quality, age-appropriate programs, where dancers can learn safely and have long and healthy journeys in dance.

I’m also passionate about training teachers to teach in these programs and sharing my program philosophy with dance studios and competitions interested in elevating the dance community. I support a dance environment where people connect, collaborate, and elevate themselves while also lifting up those around them - for this reason, I'm dedicated to helping our community grow, evolve, and benefit.