Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance Classes for All Ages in Pittsfield, IL
At S & S School Of Dance, we are dedicated to providing life-enriching dance education to students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. Established in 1974 and serving Pike County, Illinois, our studio combines technical excellence with a commitment to fostering inclusivity, integrity, and community. Our state-of-the-art 5,000-square-foot facility, opened in 2023, features specialized dance floors, secure learning environments, and age-appropriate programming designed to build confidence and discipline.With a team of experienced instructors, we offer structured training in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and tumbling, alongside leadership development programs. Our focus on safety, professionalism, and artistic growth ensures students receive comprehensive dance education that extends beyond the studio, preparing them for success in all aspects of life.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Hip Hop
Contemporary
Lyrical
Tumbling/Acrodance
Adult Classes
Creative Movement
Parent & Me
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer structured ballet training, the foundation for all dance styles
- Our facility features floating floors with marley surfaces for joint protection
- We maintain a family-friendly, body-positive environment with age-appropriate content
- Our instructors include certified professionals with decades of combined experience
- We provide leadership development through our STAR Training Program
Services
Ballet Training
Our structured ballet program develops technical foundation, posture, and discipline. Students learn classical techniques that support all dance styles while building grace and confidence. Classes emphasize proper form, barre work, and progressive skill development in a supportive environment.
Tumbling Classes
Skill-based tumbling program progresses from basic rolls to advanced acrobatics. Four-level system focuses on strength, flexibility, and safety with certified instructors. Classes develop coordination and confidence while preparing students for dance and athletic applications.
Adult Dance Classes
Fun, low-pressure classes for adult learners combine fitness with artistic expression. Programs include tap, jazz, and movement therapy that improve flexibility and coordination. Sessions emphasize community building and lifelong enjoyment of dance.
STAR Training Program
Advanced students develop teaching and leadership skills through mentorship opportunities. Program includes pedagogy training, classroom assistance, and performance leadership roles. Builds confidence and professional development for aspiring dance educators.
Parent & Me Classes
Interactive dance introduction for ages 2-3 with caregiver participation. Curriculum develops motor skills, rhythm, and social interaction through creative play. Classes transition students toward independent learning while fostering parent-child bonding.
People
Darci Heavner
Owner & Director
Darci Heavner, a graduate of Oklahoma City University with a BS in American Dance Pedagogy, directs S & S School Of Dance. With awards including Outstanding Graduating American Dance Teacher, she brings expertise in pedagogy and studio management to lead our team since 2021.
Katelin Shoemaker
Tumbling Director
Katelin Shoemaker, a 15-year studio alum and Acrobatic Arts Certified Instructor, leads our tumbling program. With experience coaching competitive teams and training at Chicago's Lou Conte Dance Studio, she brings technical expertise and safety-focused instruction to our acrobatic classes.
Ali Curless
Instructor
Ali Curless, a 15-year S&S veteran and former student assistant, teaches diverse age groups. With a BS in Finance from University of Illinois and recent GLOW Chicago training, she combines technical expertise with a passion for nurturing young dancers' development.
Libby Boren
Instructor
Libby Boren, teaching beginner classes for 11 years, combines dance expertise with education experience. A Calvin College graduate and certified GLOW Chicago attendee, she brings classroom management skills and a focus on foundational dance techniques to our youngest students.
Emma Moss
Instructor
Emma Moss, a 13-year studio alum and YPAD-certified instructor, teaches tumbling and preschool classes. Combining her recent Ag Center education with practical experience, she emphasizes safety and developmental appropriateness while fostering students' passion for dance.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer for young children?
We offer Parent & Me classes for ages 2-3 and Pre-Dance classes for ages 3-6 that introduce ballet, tap, and creative movement in a playful, nurturing environment.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes! All students participate in our annual spring recital with dress rehearsals, professional recordings, and costume packages included in performance fees.
What safety measures are in place for dance classes?
Our facility features floating marley floors to protect joints, updated tumbling mats, and strict conduct policies. Instructors maintain safe class environments with clear behavioral expectations.
Do you offer adult dance classes?
Yes, our Adult Classes provide a fun, supportive environment for all skill levels to improve fitness, coordination, and enjoy dance as a lifelong activity.
How do you handle weather-related class cancellations?
Classes follow Unit 10 school cancellations for severe weather. Closures are announced via our website, Facebook page, email, and text message updates.
What is your dress code policy?
Students must follow specified dress codes including proper footwear and attire. Specific requirements vary by class type and are detailed in our student handbook.
Reviews (4)
Rebecca Barger Fitzmaurice
Oct 20, 2021
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We have two little girls who love dance at S and S, and they both count down the days between their classes. The staff is so friendly and inviting: they truly love their jobs and their students. We are so thankful for the body positive messages they send through words, actions, and even their Facebook feeds. They are helping teach our young kids to grow strong and be healthy! The prices are comparable to others in the area, theres easy access to water and restrooms, and even a viewing room for parents!
Christine Gorton
Oct 14, 2021
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My girls attend tumbling class with Darci. She does a great job providing a positive environment, very encouraging and helpful.
Jeannie Goodman
Jan 16, 2020
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I have taken adult dance lessons from S&S for several years. I enjoy the dancing, but beyond that I learn so much about what my body needs in the way of exercise and nutrition. I have observed both Stacy and Jade teaching children. They both teach emphasis on correctly doing each movement and are very good at guiding without harshness. I have also noticed that students learn some dance theory along the way which rounds out their education. The studio is very professionally decorated in a New York dance theme, but also decorated to celebrate the seasons. Both children and adults seem to
Todd Dunham
Jan 03, 2020
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WOW! It's already been a decade since our daughters have started dance at S&S..It's been fun watching them grow up on the stage, improving each year with the help of Stacy, Jade, and Staff. We appreciate the effort you put into each class to succeed, producing an OUTSTANDING show at the end of the dance year. Personally, we love the Pointe class and Diva program in which our daughters participate in. We look forward to the years to come....