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Diamond Arts Preschool
Academics, Fitness, Musical Theatre, Music, and Dance
PRESCHOOL STAFF
The Diamond Arts Preschool staff are a few of the best children's faculty from Diamond Talent Dance. Our Preschool Teachers are dedicated to creating a fun environment in our classroom inspiring your preschoolers with the love of learning, inspiration, and the enthusiasm to try new things.
Melinda Larson
Academic & Performing Arts Director
My name is Melinda. I'm the co-owner of Diamond Talent alongside my husband Brian. I homeschooled my three kids when we began the studio 25 years ago. My now adult children have all graduated college with degrees in the arts: my daughter from Pace University (BA in Theater Arts - Acting Focus with a minor in Film Studies) and my two sons from Musician's Institute (Certificate)/SLCC (Associates Film Production Degree), & The Juilliard School (BFA in Dance).
Over the past 26 years teaching at Diamond in dance my husband, Brian, and I have also encouraged doctors, professional trainers, journalists, school teachers, entrepreneurs, and parents. More than anything I am proud of the many, many outstanding human beings that I have had the honor of teaching. My 34 years as a performer, teacher, choreographer, and director have been filled with great rewards including my marriage to Brian and our three children Miranda, Zachary, Alex, and my daughter-in-law Emily.
Jackie Neil
Preschool Teacher
Hi, I'm Jackie and I'm the lead teacher for the academic side of our preschool as well as a Performing Arts Instructor. Although I've been a member of Diamond's staff for 4 years, I've been with Diamond Talent as a student since I was a kid studying in every dance style including ballet, jazz, tap, musical theatre, yoga, and hip hop. In high school, I began teaching children in Diamond's Student Teaching program teaching ballet, jazz, & tap dance to children ages 2-12.
After I graduated, I joined the staff at Diamond Arts Preschool as a lead instructor and continue to love showing the little ones new things every week! I also perform as a Guest Diamond Talent Alumni in Diamond's annual Christmas and Spring shows.
Maleya Alldredge
Preschool Teacher
I'm Maleya, and I teach music appreciation as well as performing arts and fitness classes! I've been a student at Diamond Talent and began as a Student teacher when I was 17. After I graduated high school, I joined the staff at Diamond Arts Preschool and as a full-time dance teacher at Diamond Talent.
Over the years, I've studied ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary dance, yoga/pilates, musical theatre, and vocal performance. I continue to perform as a guest alumni with Diamond in their annual Christmas and Spring shows.
Emily Armstrong
Preschool Assistant & Sub Instructor
Photo & Bio coming soon!
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