Each season, Charlotte Ballet honors outstanding individuals with three awards: Dance Educator of the Year, Dance Student of the Year and Dance Champion of the Year. During the Education Salute, each recipient will receive a certificate and tickets to complimentary designated performances in the 2025/2026 Season.
Nominations are now closed
EDUCATION SALUTE
2025 AWARD RECIPIENTS
Educator of the Year K-8: Robin Gray Bishop (South Academy of International Languages)
Educator of the Year – Middle School: Shannon Young (Mint Hill Middle School)
Dance Student of the Year: Nyla Wells (East Mecklenburg High School)
Dance Student of the Year: Logan Cain (Community School of Davidson)
Dance Champion of the Year: Beth Knight (Community School of Davidson)
NOMINEE CRITERIA
DANCE EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR
- Three or more years of teaching dance in a K-12 public or independent school in Charlotte-Mecklenburg and/or surrounding counties
- Demonstrates excellence in teaching and engaging students in dance
- Adopts innovative strategies for teaching dance within the North Carolina Essential Standards
- Actively pursues artistic and professional development through workshops, performances and conferences
- Works to connect school, family, and community resources by involving students in trips, performances, and events
DANCE STUDENT OF THE YEAR
- Is a student currently enrolled in a K-12 dance program at his/her public or independent school
- Shows exemplary progress and achievement in areas of creativity, performance, attendance, character traits and work ethic
- Enjoys participating in dance and finds dance to be a meaningful pursuit in his/her life
DANCE CHAMPION AWARD
- A parent or community member who has supported a dance program in one or more K12 public or independent schools. (Dance Educators are not eligible for this award and should instead be nominated for the Dance Educator of the Year Award.)
OR - A person who has made a significant contribution to dance education through advocacy, special projects, fundraising, and/or volunteer work, above and beyond expectations.
NOMINATION FORM
EDUCATION PROGRAMMING SPONSORED BY
