Free After-School & Summer
Arts Programs
for Elementary Students
Each year, students ages 5–11 participate in our free after-school and summer programs, where high-quality dance training is paired with academic support, social-emotional learning, and meaningful family engagement opportunities.
Designed to support the whole child and family, our programs connect students to wraparound resources through trusted community partners, ensuring families have access to services, guidance, and opportunities that help them thrive. We are proud to offer an inclusive environment where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered.
Students who complete the program become eligible for Next Steps, our dance training scholarship initiative, opening the door to continued growth and opportunity. Grounded in a data-driven model, our programs have a proven track record of building life skills through dance, strengthening confidence, improving academic performance, and supporting social-emotional growth. Students who complete the program become eligible for Next Steps, our scholarship initiative, opening the door to continued training and long-term opportunity.
After School Programs
Below please find the schedule and list of staff for each of the four community program sites. To register click your desired location and click register in your age group. If you have any questions about the schedule or registration please contact Kelly@armourdance.org
Our Approach
Armour Dance Theatre’s free after-school programs take a whole-child approach, combining high-quality dance instruction, academic support, and social-emotional learning in a safe, inclusive environment where students feel seen and supported. The program is not talent-based—students are welcomed as they are, with consistent attendance and active participation as the only expectations. All programming, materials, and dance uniforms are provided at no cost. Our goal is to prepare students for top middle school opportunities while offering continued pathways through our Next Steps scholarship program.
The Formula For The Program is Simple
Our programs are led by a dedicated team of teaching artists, academic support staff, and site coordinators who work collaboratively to support each student. Many instructors are also school-day teachers, ensuring continuity and alignment with classroom learning.
During the school year, students attend programming five days per week, engaging in dance instruction, homework support, literacy and math enrichment, and social-emotional learning. Summer programs operate as full-day camps, offering a balanced schedule of dance, academics, enrichment activities, and field experiences in a safe, structured environment.
Measuring Progress
We measure student progress using evidence-based assessment tools administered by trained, certified teachers to gather empirical data in literacy, math, and social-emotional learning. Additionally, we collect ongoing anecdotal observations from staff, students, and families to provide a more holistic understanding of student growth and program impact. Students are formally assessed three times during the school year and twice in the summer, while program quality and family satisfaction are evaluated through annual student and parent surveys.
Our impact is both measurable and lasting, supporting students in reaching key academic, artistic, and personal milestones each year.
Academic & Postsecondary Readiness
- 92% of 5th grade students are accepted into a school of choice.
- 100% of high school seniors graduate on time and submit at least two postsecondary applications.
- 80% of students in grades 11–12 participate in SAT/ACT prep or college essay coaching annually.
- 100% of eligible middle school students receive audition support and solo coaching, with at least 85% accepted into competitive programs.
Artistic Development
- 100% of students participate in a minimum of two performance opportunities each year.
- 100% of eligible students receive financial assistance for dancewear, footwear, and transportation.
Wellness & Support Services
- 100% of students have access to licensed mental health professionals, with at least 60% utilizing services annually.
- 100% of students with injuries receive wellness check-ins and referrals as needed.
- 100% of families have access to a referral network for medical, legal, immigration, housing, and other essential services.
Dance Teachers
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Meredith Barton – Ballet & Composition
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Natalie Axley – Jazz & Conditioning
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Angelica Diaz – Ballet & Salsa
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Davin Thompson – Hip Hop
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Deja Darbonne – Ballet
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Natasha Williams – Tap & Repertoire
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Paula Castano – Flamenco & Social Dance
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Chipo Afafumena – West African
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Jamal Campbell – Musical Theatre
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Barny Espinal – Afro Cuban Fusion
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Emily Ricca – Ballet
Administrative Staff
- Ruth Wiesen, Executive Director
- Camila Gil, Associate Executive Director
- Kelly Robotham, Director of Community Programs
