From Dance Studio to Third Grade: A Teacher's Journey

MAHPERD "Voices From The field"

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When passion meets purpose, learning transforms. Tiana's story begins at sixteen, teaching ballet, tap, and jazz to preschoolers and special education dance classes—experiences that kindled her love for teaching long before formal education training. Now teaching third grade in East Hartford, Connecticut, she brings this dance background directly into her classroom through strategic movement breaks that help students regulate emotions and refocus their energy throughout the day.
What makes Tiana's story compelling is her commitment to creating learning environments where academic risk-taking is celebrated. "A classroom should be inclusive and loving," she explains, describing how she encourages students to embrace mistakes as essential to learning. Rather than providing immediate answers when students struggle with challenging concepts like multiplication, she facilitates peer support—sometimes through whispered hints between friends—fostering both independence and community.
The magic happens when these philosophies intersect with real student needs. Tiana shares the touching transformation of a student who arrived from El Salvador unable to read, write, or speak much English. Through genuine care and intentional relationship-building, this initially anxious child blossomed into a confident learner who loved coming to school. Beyond her classroom, Tiana balances teaching with roles as a choreographer and representative for the National Academy of Health and Physical Literacy, embodying her own advice: "Work hard, do what you love, and make memories."
Connect with Tiana:

[email protected]

Chapters

1. Introducing Tiana Boccuzzi (00:00:00)

2. Journey from Dance to Teaching (00:02:02)

3. Creating an Inclusive Classroom Environment (00:04:34)

4. Success Stories with Diverse Learners (00:06:21)

5. Incorporating Dance into Education (00:11:42)

6. Future Goals and Advice (00:14:45)