TRAC Pillars

Sep 1

TRAC is a special place. Its spirit is difficult to define—perhaps it’s pride, warmth, or even a bit of luck. There’s something unmistakable about the way people work, train, and create here.

Each person—whether student, teacher, administrator, or leader—shows up with a sense of responsibility, joy, and connection that makes TRAC feel like more than just a studio.

Of course, many places share similar values to us. But it’s not what we do that sets TRAC apart—it’s how we do it. We operate as a community, like a family: inter-reliant, interconnected. That spirit makes our director’s mission, our faculty’s profession, and our staff’s work feel like a purpose—a calling. It draws on the most personal, empathetic parts of us: our hearts and our souls. And that’s what we pour into the studio and our students.

So, here is a breakdown of our 5, 6, 7…8 TRAC Pillars that keep us aligned with our core values, written in collaboration by Jamee Valin (studio owner/director) and Kiara Marazzi (outreach coordinator/content manager):

Organization

TRAC’s administrative and leadership teams are exceptionally organized, offering some of the most timely and transparent communication available in any after-school or competitive arts program. From email testimonials and staff feedback to day-to-day interactions, it’s clear: we run a tight ship. We keep students and families informed year-round with thoughtfully prepared info packages. These often include visual references, tutorial links, and individually highlighted schedules. But don’t just take our word for it—check out the Current Students tab on our website on April 1st when all of our June Recital information is promptly released!

Connection

Student-teacher relationships are central to our philosophy. Many students have trained with the same teacher and classmates for all five years that we’ve operated, growing from age three to eight (and counting) under consistent guidance and camaraderie. This continuity creates trust and familiarity, allowing for truly individualized and impactful training as teachers attune to not only their students’ technical abilities but also their personalities, learning styles, and evolving needs.

Dance-Life Balance

We recognize just how essential it is to maintain a healthy balance between life and dance. When students look back on their time in a competitive or recreational training program, they should recall it with great fondness. That feeling becomes impossible if the balance during those years was off. Dancers, especially those at formative ages, need space to build their identity, self-worth, and childhood memories beyond a single activity like dance. This truth is even more critical for those who pursue careers in dance or theatrical performance; without balance, burnout, or injury can lead to more than just financial instability; it can trigger an identity crisis. People are whole beings, not just skill sets, and when dancers and their loved ones have time for other activities outside the studio, they’re less likely to experience said burnout or resentment - overall, dance should always enhance life, not overshadow it.

Performance & Artistry

We intentionally split our focus between technical skill-building, artistry, and individuality because we are not robots. We are human beings with innate talents, learning new skills every day to elevate and evolve those gifts. While tricks and technique have their place, it’s artistry, presence, and personal expression that we want our students to be recognized for. We encourage everyone to build their unique voices and to see technique not as the end goal, but as the foundation — a structure to explore, shape, and eventually move beyond. As our students discover their intentions and truth, their sense of self — their personhood — inevitably influences and elevates their performances for audiences and judges alike.

Fun! Lots and Lots of It

In the office, we often find ourselves watching video footage from all four studios midway through a day of classes—and what we see are students bursting with energy, fully engaged in play-based, collective learning. You too can see these feelings erupting in the way students skip into the building as they arrive, they light up as they line up for class, and they leave chattering excitedly to their parents about everything they did that day. This palpable buzz transforms dance and theatre disciplines that require hard work, focus, and dedication into something equally irresistible and genuinely fun for our students.

Open Door Policy & Agency

Dance and theatre training is also life training. Whether in recreational, competitive, or musical theatre programs, our students should grow up knowing it is safe to approach leadership, express concerns, ask questions, and seek clarity. And when the time is right, our teens have the agency and confidence to participate in creative, impactful decision-making processes that benefit both themselves and others.

Faculty Appreciation & Compensation

We believe fair compensation is a cornerstone of valuing our educators — and an essential part of building a strong studio culture. But beyond pay, appreciation and respect are woven into everything we do. Each faculty member is recognized for their unique contributions, regardless of the age group or division they teach. This recognition fosters a shared sense of purpose across our team. When teachers feel supported and equally valued, it shows in the care they bring to class, the pride they take in their work, and the collaborative spirit they help build. Fair pay also empowers our educators to keep growing, whether through workshops, certifications, or new creative studies. Their growth directly benefits our students, who experience fresh ideas, refined techniques, and ever-evolving methods. (Love you, TRAC Team <3)

High Level Creative Productions

A well-run show requires extensive preparation, but the additional hours and costs are more than worth it. The dedication our students and faculty invest throughout the year deserves the strongest possible container — one that truly honours their efforts and showcases them at their best for the families who support these projects with their time, energy, and resources. By giving ample time on stage before show day, we ensure smooth transitions, build student confidence, and allow teachers to refine their work. As a result, our performers become adept at navigating tech and dress rehearsals, taking cues from directors and stage crew, and organizing themselves and their team before going onstage. By holding our student productions to near-industry standards, we help mould adaptable, intelligent artists who can thrive under pressure and shine in any scenario!

Kiara Marazzi