Build Skills. Lead with Confidence. Prepare for What’s Next.

The Maryland Academy of Dance STEP Program is designed to help young people grow into capable, responsible, and confident leaders through real-world experience.
 

STEP goes beyond simply “helping around the studio.” Students learn how to communicate professionally, take initiative, work as part of a team, respond to feedback, manage responsibilities, and develop skills that can support them in future teaching, leadership, education, and employment opportunities.
 

Students age 11 and older may apply to one of three pathways based on their interests and readiness. Whether a student is drawn to teaching, studio leadership and operations, or a combination of both, STEP provides a structured environment for growth through training, assignments, supervised experience, evaluation, and progressive responsibility.
 

Choose the pathway that best reflects where you would like to grow. Final pathway, level, and placement are determined by MAD based on experience, readiness, availability, and program needs.

Returning students will not automatically restart at Level 1. Previous years of STEP participation, prior responsibilities, demonstrated skills, professionalism, and current readiness are reviewed to determine an appropriate starting point within the 2026–2027 structure.