Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Valinski.
Hi Jennifer, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Every dancer teacher has a story. Mine began as a young girl with a dream and a love for dance and tumbling.
My dance and tumbling journey started in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, where I trained at Dancer’s Workshop under the direction of Mary Lou Barnes. Those early years laid the foundation for a lifelong passion that would shape not only my career but also my purpose.
I continued my training at the Professional School of Ballet, where I studied the renowned Vaganova Ballet Technique. It was there that discipline, artistry, and technical excellence became the cornerstones of my education.
By the age of sixteen, I was already assisting dance teachers and choreographers, discovering that I loved teaching just as much as performing. Only two years later, at eighteen years old, I became a full-time dance instructor responsible for more than 200 students. From that moment on, I knew my calling was not simply to teach dance and tumbling it was to inspire confidence, build character, and help children discover their own potential.
My passion for learning never stopped. I continued my education by attending Oakland University, earning a bachelor’s degree in arts management and dance. I also became certified through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, combining my love of dance with a passion for health, wellness, and helping children thrive both inside and outside the studio.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching at numerous respected studios and organizations, including The Professional School of Ballet, Juliart Dance, Van Buren Parks and Recreation, Livonia Public Schools, P&P Dance Centre, Belleville Lake Dance Company, Inner Action Dance, and ultimately founding and directing Jitterbugs Dance & Tumbling.
Over the years, my choreography has been recognized with numerous regional and national awards, particularly in lyrical and contemporary dance. While these honors are meaningful, my greatest accomplishment has always been watching my students grow into confident, compassionate, and successful young adults.
As my reputation grew throughout Michigan, I remained committed to professional development. I have participated in numerous dance, acrobatics, tumbling, educational, and health organizations, continually expanding my knowledge so I can offer the very best to every student who walks through my doors.
Giving back has always been at the heart of my mission. Together with my students, I have donated countless hours performing and volunteering for nursing homes, churches, schools, community festivals, and charitable organizations. I firmly believe that dance is more than an art; it is a way to serve, inspire, and bring joy to others.
Today, after decades of teaching thousands of dancers, I remain just as passionate as the day I stepped into my first dance class. Every class I teach is an opportunity to encourage children to dream big, work hard, believe in themselves, and discover that they are capable of far more than they ever imagined.
When I’m not at the studio, you’ll usually find me spending time with my two grown children, baking fresh sourdough bread, tending my backyard chickens and garden, or enjoying life with my beloved Labrador Retrievers.
Dance has given me a lifetime of purpose, and it is my greatest privilege to pass that gift on to the next generation.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of my biggest challenges is Balancing Affordability with Profitability. One of your greatest strengths is I want every child to have the opportunity to dance, regardless of a family’s financial situation. However, owning a dance studio have costs such rent, insurance, utilities, costumes, payroll, music licensing, equipment, competition fees, inflation and pay yourself what you’re worth.
Another challenge is as an owner; I am more than just a dance teacher. I am a:
* Instructor
* Choreographer
* Office manager
* Marketing director
* Costume coordinator
* Event planner
* Bookkeeper
* Customer service representative
* Mentor
* Cleaner
* Social media manager
There simply aren’t enough hours in the day.
Finally, Standing Out in a Crowded Market
Many studios advertise:
* Winning trophies
* Elite teams
* National titles
My brand is different.
I focus on:
* Health
* Character
* Safe movement
* Confidence
* Community
* Affordable education
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
For more than two decades, my passion has been helping children and adults discover confidence, strength, and joy through dance and movement. At Jitterbugs Dance & Tumbling, I believe dance is about so much more than learning steps, it’s about building healthy bodies, strong character, lasting friendships, and self-confidence that extends far beyond the studio.
My mission has always been simple: to provide an affordable, high-quality dance education where every individual has the opportunity to move safely, improve their physical and emotional well-being, and grow in a fun, encouraging, and loving environment.
What sets me apart is the combination of experience, education, and genuine care I bring to every class. I have spent decades teaching dancers of every age: from preschoolers taking their very first ballet class to adults rediscovering their love of dance. My expertise spans ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary, tumbling, and fitness, allowing me to meet students where they are and help them reach their personal goals.
Education has always been important to me. I hold a bachelor’s degree in arts management and dance and am a certified Health and Wellness Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Throughout my career, I have continued my professional development through certifications, workshops, conferences, and conventions focused on dance education, kinesiology, injury prevention, early childhood development, physical education, health, and tumbling. This commitment allows me to teach students safely while promoting lifelong health and wellness.
One of the things I am most proud of is making quality dance education affordable for families. I understand that many households have to balance busy schedules and tight budgets. Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the confidence, discipline, and joy that dance provides, which is why I work hard to keep my programs accessible without sacrificing quality.
Families also know they are never just a number here. I pride myself on offering personal service, clear communication, and support every step of the way. Whether parents have questions about classes, costumes, performances, or their child’s progress, they can expect thoughtful responses within 24 hours. Building strong relationships with our families is just as important as teaching great dance classes.
My programs are intentionally designed to meet every student’s needs and abilities. Whether a child wants to dance recreationally, compete, tumble, or simply stay active, there is a place for them at Jitterbugs. Every class emphasizes respect, perseverance, teamwork, confidence, responsibility, and healthy living while helping students reach their full potential.
Community is at the heart of everything we do. I am incredibly proud that Jitterbugs Dance & Tumbling is a community-based program serving families both in person and online. I believe in giving back, encouraging one another, and creating an environment where every student feels welcomed, valued, and inspired.
When families join Jitterbugs, they aren’t simply enrolling in dance classes they are becoming part of a supportive family that celebrates every milestone, every accomplishment, and every child’s unique journey.
Whether your goal is to dance for fun, improve fitness, prepare for competition, or simply build confidence, I would love to welcome you into our dance family.
Come discover what makes Jitterbugs Dance & Tumbling different. We can’t wait to help you take your first step.
Call today: 734-777-0201
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Many ways just call or email me at Jitterbugselite@gmail.com or call 734-777-0201.
Pricing:
- $30 Private 30 minutes $60 for 1 hour
- $40 30 minutes group class
- $45 45 minute group class
- $50 1 hour group class
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.myjitterbugs.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jitterbugselite/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myjitterbugs/
- Youtube: https://www.instagram.com/jitterbugselite/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@myjitterbugs
