Kelly Taylor

Education

  • Cary-Grove High School Graduate
  • University of Iowa
    • Bachelor of Arts in English and Secondary Education, Minor in Dance
  • St. Xavier University
    • Masters degree in Teaching and Leadership

Training and Performance Highlights

  • Won Universal Dance Association Summer Camp Coach’s Leadership and Excellence award in 2009 and 2012
  • Kelly began her dance training at The Dance Academy in Cary, and also took classes at Bataille Academy of Dance in Barrington.
  • At Cary-Grove High School, she was a three-year member of the Pom squad, serving as co-captain as a junior, and as captain senior year. Kelly was also a two-year member of Cary-Grove High School Swing Choir, and performed in Cary-Grove High School musicals: Crazy for You (Patsy), Brigadoon, Damn Yankees and West Side Story.

Teaching Experience

  • CGPAC teacher since 2012
  • English Teacher at Antioch Community High School (2004-present)
  • Head coach for Antioch Community High School dance team (2005-present): state champions in AA Kick 2007, 2nd place in AA Kick 2012, 3rd place in AA Open Dance in 2006, 4th place Open Dance 2009, 2011, and 2012, and 4th place in AA Kick in 2010
  • Choreographer for Antioch Community High School musical productions: (2007-present)

Personal

Kelly lives with her husband, daughter, and dog in Antioch, Illinois. She spends her time outside of teaching and dancing chasing a toddler. She can't wait to one day see her daughter, Hayley, hop after Miss Robin as Frosty in the Winter Recital. Kelly is passionate about educating children and young adults in the arts. She believes that dance builds strength physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is a passion as well as an art which requires enthusiasm and determination, and one that will produce joy and confidence.