Courtney is a native of Tampa with a great love for the arts and for children. She grew up dancing from the age of 3 and began training at MJPAA at the age of 9. Courtney was a member of the Universal Movement Performing Arts Company, under the direction of Mary Jo Scanio, for many years. Courtney also participated in the Class Assistant Preparatory Program (CAPP), assisting children’s division classes at the Academy. She was also a member of her high school’s dance team. Courtney graduated from the Academy of the Holy Names.
She continued her studies in Dance at the University of Florida under the direction of Richard Rose. Ultimately, she transitioned to the College of Education, finding a love for teaching as the common thread. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Special Education. Throughout college she continued her love for dance through performing with the Danza Dance Company and she has continued to find ways to keep the arts in her life ever since.
Courtney attributes great personal development to her time at MJPAA that shaped her into the person she is today. She believes the arts are a wonderful place for children to explore and grow. Courtney is now an elementary school teacher in the Tampa area and enjoys getting to do what she loves every day-to teach and guide children toward their greatest potential.