Ms. Melanie Pries earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an ESL endorsement from Michigan State University. She began dancing at Tina Marie School of Dance at age three, competing from ages six to eighteen, and started teaching there in 10th grade. At Tina Marie, she created summer-themed kids’ camps, taught weekly recreational classes, and performed in major events like the Thanksgiving Day Parade and Ford Field. At MSU, she was an active member of Orchesis Dance Company, where she choreographed four pieces, taught weekly classes with up to 80 students, led welcome classes to build community, and served two years as Social Chair. She also danced with NRG Dance Crew, performing at Detroit Pistons games, MSU basketball games, and community hip hop events. Melanie’s theater experience includes drama and acting classes, multiple performances at Romeo High School, and competing and teaching workshops at the Michigan Theatre Festival.
Ms. Pries’s teaching philosophy centers on a play-based, student-focused approach that fosters creativity, confidence, and social-emotional learning. With her background in elementary education and ESL, she is passionate about making dance relevant and meaningful by integrating movement with cross-curricular connections.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys thrifting for unique finds, attending coffee shop concerts, spending quality time with family, and experiencing live theater and dance performances. Ms. Pries is thrilled to bring her passion and dance and education experience to inspire students and build a welcoming space where every child feels valued, confident, and excited to move!
