Rebecca began dancing at the age of 3 and never stopped! She trained in ballet, tap, and jazz throughout her childhood, but fell in love with poms and hip hop in high school. As a member of her high school dance team, she led her squad as captain, competing in numerous competitions and becoming state champions two years in a row. She continued her dance training as a member of the Northern Illinois University, Silverette Dance Team. While dancing in college, Rebecca majored in education and has worked as a licensed educator for over 15 years. She has spent the last 5 years of her career teaching dance classes all over the North Shore.

Rebecca’s classes are designed to encourage children to try new skills, gain confidence, and spread the joy of dance. A loving and supporting environment are the cornerstone principles to her teaching philosophy. She hopes to spread her love of dance with her students while creating fun, challenging, and rewarding classes.

My name is Ava and I am a commercial dancer in Chicago! I graduated with my BFA in Dance from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, and currently dance for The Puzzle Dynasty in Chicago. I grew up dancing in the Chicago area and NYC. For the last few years I have performed in ABC7 New Years Eve specials, World of Dance Chicago, New York, Dallas, and Las Vegas. My favorite style of dance is urban and street styles and I also love musical theater, with my last show being Dance Captain for Pippin, at the University. I now am attending school for Occupational therapy, working in pediatrics, while teaching and dancing professionally! Let’s move and groove together!

Hi! My name is Yesenia Ramirez. I have worked with the park district for 7 years at Junior Crew Camp, as both a counselor and camp director! When I am not in camp, I teach a special education preschool program. I love working with kids year-round and have learned many tools to connect with every child. I have a passion for Ballet and Folkloric dance. I am excited to jump back into dance with kids that love dance as much as I do!

Celeste is currently studying Theatre and Psychology at Northwestern University and is on track to graduate in 2026. She is originally from Atlanta, Georgia, and grew up with a love for performance. She also has a strong passion for theatre and dance education and loves to work with children of all ages. Celeste is so delighted to be joining the PDHP family!

Peyton is a teacher and dance artist based in Chicago. Currently in the CPS Teacher Residency Program, she is earning her Masters in Elementary Education with a Dance Endorsement from Loyola University. She holds a BFA from Cornish College of the Arts with an emphasis on choreography and composition. Balancing a passion for arts education and expression, Peyton strives to keep humanity and empathy at the forefront of her choreography, performance, and teaching.