Heart of the Valley Dance Academy Staff

Sara Musich is the Owner and an instructor at HOTVDA. She began dancing at the age of 5 and has been involved with dance ever since. She has taught all styles of dance, with tap being her favorite. She hopes Heart of the Valley Dance Academy stands out from other studios by creating an inclusive, inviting, and inspiring classroom environment, while helping our dancers learn to be respectful, responsible, and independent. 

Kim Dercks is the Competition Director and an instructor at HOTVDA. She is an outstanding, award-winning choreographer, receiving numerous outstanding choreography and most entertaining awards at competitions.  She teaches tap, jazz and lyrical. 

Candy Damm joined the HOTVDA staff in 2012. As a transplant to our area from Chicago, she brings years of experience as a dancer, instructor, and studio owner. She  is known for her love of anything with glitter or sparkles.  She teaches all styles of dance and has created many award winning routines.

Kristin Smits began her dance career at age three and has worked at HOTVDA since 2007.  She creates  a fun and welcoming environment in her classroom that keeps our dancers returning year after year.  She teaches tap , jazz and ballet. 

Emma Loeck is a HOTVDA alumni who is back to work her ballet magic with our competitive program. She is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), an innovative body-conditioning and strengthening program that has been designed to enhance students' technique in all forms of dance.   We are excited to have her at the studio sharing her knowledge.

 Brittany Malueg has  danced all her life - falling in love with lyrical/ contemporary and ballet. Her unique, award winning choreography is entertaining to watch and even more fun to dance! She also teaches tap and jazz at HOTVDA 

 Pat Dercks runs the office at HOTVDA. She can be found working the front desk most nights of the week.  She can answer all your questions and if your lucky - she will share her baking skills with you! 

  Emma Veldman is a HOTVDA alumni. She is currently the captain of the UW Stevens Point Dance Team and working with our competitive team again this year. Her choreography has won numerous overall awards and her fun teaching style makes her a favorite with our dancers!

Isabelle Musich is our newest staff member at HOTVDA. She is teaching summer classes and working as a substitute teacher for our fall classes. She is currently a member of the award-winning UW-La Crosse dance team and an ambassador for Symposium Talent Contest.