The Academy of Dance and Gymnastics

★Ashlyn Morton

My 3.5 yr old child was discriminated against because she has autism and the parent sneak peek threw off her routine and she became distressed.i was informed when I called to speak to a manager regarding being told my child being distressed scares other students that they dont accept children with autism so shes surprised she was accepted when i have been very transparent about her diagnosis since before I enrolled her 7 months ago. Any buisness that supports maintaining their reputation more than caring and including a child with a disability has lost my support. Im disgusted to see such cruel behaviors from adults. The instructors jayla and Kayla were fantastic with my child and her disability and the studio owner could take use of some tips from them. Dear Linda, Thank you for your response regarding the situation involving my daughter, Makenzie. I want to clarify several concerns after reviewing your letter. Makenzie has been enrolled at your studio for approximately seven months, and I disclosed her autism diagnosis prior to her enrollment so that the staff would be aware of her needs. During the recent parent “sneak peek,” the change in routine caused Makenzie to become overwhelmed. This is a common and well-documented response for autistic children when their environment suddenly changes. However, she was not given the opportunity to calm down and rejoin the class. Instead, she was removed and I was told that she “scares the other children.” This statement was made in front of Makenzie. While your letter states that all children are treated equally and that the same policies apply to everyone, my experience in class suggests otherwise. I have observed other children become disruptive without being removed from class or excluded from participating. Your letter also states that your teachers are not trained to work with autistic children. While I understand that specialized training may not always be available, this statement raises concerns regarding the studio’s ability to support children with disabilities after knowingly accepting their enrollment. Additionally, your letter compares your policies to those used in public schools. However, public schools provide structured supports for children with disabilities through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and trained staff who are equipped to help children regulate and successfully return to the classroom environment. These supports exist specifically so that children with developmental differences can participate meaningfully rather than being excluded when they experience moments of distress. My intention in raising these concerns is not to create conflict but to advocate for my child and ensure that children with developmental disabilities are treated with dignity, patience, and respect. I hope this situation encourages further reflection on how children with different needs are supported within your programs. Sincerely, Ashlyn Morton

★Tori Baber

A friend of mines daughter went here and they discriminated against her because she is on the spectrum. My friend's story is in the photo section.

★★Amaya Valencla

Had my own teachers talk bad about me to other students, the teachers are very passive aggressive here and rude and god forbid you’re not a favorite..it’s also hard to learn here because they put you in groups with people who already have tricks so we don’t really go down to the basics to achieve things I was warned about all of these things before joining but I chose to ignore please don’t ignore this warning and so many other dancers feel the same way also most of the girls are very mean especially those in higher groups

★★★★★Josiane Charles

First off I have a shy girl who would normally take some time to really open up. This is her first time doing gymnastics and on her first day she’s such a different out going young lady. I really appreciate the instructors, when I asked her how her class was she was so excited to show, and tell me everything. She went nonstop about how the instructors helped her and show her the technique and she didn’t feel left out or confused. The price is so reasonable as I am a single mom I love for my kids to be active and participate in things. So far this is a wonderful school I will definitely update we had till June so I know there will be hiccups but I’m more about the communication and the timing it takes resolving the issues that’s what I look for.

★★★★★Jessica Showalter

My daughter started AOD at age 3 and has loved dancing at this studio the past 3 years! Christmas and Spring recitals are impressive! The teachers definitely know what they are doing even with the little ones! Highly recommend!