When it comes to introducing a child to the world of dance, the first steps are the most critical. At LeRoux School of Dance, those steps are guided by the Twinkle Star Dance™ program, a world-class curriculum designed specifically for the unique developmental needs of preschool and elementary students. But a curriculum is only as good as the educators behind it.
LeRoux’s powerhouse team: Kelly Stento, Mehgan Jarvie, Kierstin Moses, and Alissa Johann bring a rare blend of high-level academic training, professional performance experience, and certified expertise to the studio’s youngest dancers. Here is why this “dream team” is making
waves in childhood arts education.
The Twinkle Star Advantage: Science Meets Sparkle
Before a child can master a pirouette, they must first master coordination, listening, and confidence. The Twinkle Star program is built on four pillars: Skill Building, Center Movement, Just For Fun, and Showtime. Unlike generic dance classes, Twinkle Star is research-backed. Developed in partnership with researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and Stanford, the curriculum uses “age-appropriate pacing” to ensure toddlers remain engaged. Benefits for preschoolers include:
- Executive Function: Movement patterns help develop focus and memory.
- Social-Emotional Growth: Predictable routines build the security needed to try new things.
- Physical Milestones: Targeted exercises improve balance, bilateral coordination, and spatial
awareness.
Certified Excellence: Meet the LeRoux Experts
A curriculum is only as effective as the hands that deliver it. To teach Twinkle Star, instructors must be certified in its specific age-appropriate progressions. At LeRoux, the teaching team represents a rare blend of high-level academic degrees and professional pedigree.
Kelly Stento: The Visionary Leader
As President and CEO, Kelly Stento has spent decades refining the “family-friendly professional” atmosphere at LeRoux. Trained at the University of the Arts and DeSales University, Kelly is a certified Twinkle Star expert who understands that the “first teacher” makes the biggest impact. Her commitment to the Twinkle Star methodology ensures that every child at LeRoux receives a consistent, high-quality education that builds “Showstar” confidence.
Mehgan Jarvie: The Master Educator
Mehgan Jarvie brings an incredible level of academic authority to the preschool classroom. With a BFA in Dance and an MFA in Dance Education from Temple University, she has spent 25 years teaching professionally. Despite her high-level credentials, Mehgan’s true passion is the beginner level. She believes that a child’s prime development years are the most important, and she uses her vast expertise to ensure those early foundations are technically sound and joyfully delivered.
Alissa Johann: The Technical Specialist
Alissa Johann’s background reads like a “who’s who” of the dance world, with training from Brandywine Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre. Beyond her technique, Alissa is a certified Youth Protection Advocates in Dance (YPAD) instructor. This certification, paired with her Twinkle Star training, means she is uniquely qualified to foster a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment for young dancers to build both strength and self-esteem.
Kierstin Moses: The Joy-Maker
Kierstin Moses understands the power of the “Twinkle Star” experience firsthand. Having grown up in the studio environment, she brings relatable energy to the classroom. Her background in various genres and her passion for team building allow her to implement the Twinkle Star “Across-the-Floor Adventures” with an enthusiasm that keeps preschoolers engaged and excited to return every week.
Why It Matters
At LeRoux School of Dance, the Twinkle Star program isn’t just a “babysitting” hour; it is a launchpad. Under the guidance of Stento, Jarvie, Johann, and Moses, your child isn’t just learning to dance; they are learning to shine.
Ready to watch your child shine? Visit www.lerouxdance.com to learn more about their certified programs and world-class faculty.
