My Current Mission
Leading with Kindness: Creating Safe, Thriving Spaces in the Performing Arts and Beyond
My message to people and children would be: not simply to follow, but to lead. To pave the way for future generations and for one another—guided by the “Golden Rule” and supported by thoughtful strategies and methods that help reduce bullying in the classroom as much as possible.
This includes using natural, collective cues in class that address the group as a whole rather than singling out individuals. This approach helps minimize conflict with parents, who naturally want to defend their children. While parents are not physically present in the classroom—and some are unwilling to attend parent-teacher conferences—it can make resolving bullying situations more difficult.
I find that much of this difficulty stems from a lack of communication within the broader system, as well as inconsistencies in parent communication, whether by phone or email. How someone runs their organization is their choice; however, what I do not agree with is subjecting students to bullying or toxic environments that can impact them for the rest of their lives, with lasting consequences on their future, their nervous system, and their relationships.
While leading as a teacher and authority figure is important, I also believe it is equally important to teach students how to lead themselves—if they choose to. Leadership is a vital life skill. You can lead people in the right direction or the wrong direction, and understanding that responsibility matters. In my classroom, I aim to promote kind leadership, respect, and teamwork.
People send their children to dance class, theater, and performance programs with the intention of helping them learn, socialize, and grow into better individuals. The performing arts enhance their ability to perform well academically and socially. When bullying is present and prevents students from expressing themselves or reaching their full potential, it raises an important question: where does the responsibility lie?
Is it with the teachers? The parents? The system?
And more importantly—how do we rectify it?
It is not the children’s fault.
I believe it is time we begin looking inward, as individuals and as a community, to better support one another and create environments where children can thrive in positivity, safety, and encouragement—spaces that ensure success, confidence, and peace for future generations.
My newest endeavors include teaching Pilates alongside a former Florida Panthers cheerleader at FS8, as well as being in the interview process for my next performing arts teaching opportunity. I currently have students who come to me for private dance lessons, voice lessons, musical theater coaching, and who ask me every question they can think of (lol)—and I do my best to answer them all.
I teach my students that there is a time to be serious and a time to have fun, and that understanding the difference is an important part of growth.
I look forward to continuing to spread positivity and knowledge throughout the community, while also emphasizing the importance of living fully, expressing joy, and having fun along the way.
“Dance is the hidden language of the soul.” — Martha Graham
— Ilana Robbins
