About Me

Hi, I’m Ms. Burke — a dance teacher, mom of three, and someone who has always believed in the power of movement to heal, connect, and inspire.

I grew up dancing, and after losing a loved one, I found my way back to dance as a form of grief therapy. In 2013, I volunteered with my first adapted dance program, Free 2 Be Me. That moment completely changed my path — I discovered how much joy and confidence dance could bring to children of all abilities. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of teaching with programs like Down for Dance in Orange County and Ready, Willing, and Able in Palos Verdes.

Today, I’m a credentialed Adapted Physical Education Specialist, Dance Teacher, and PE Teacher for the State of California. I hold both a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Kinesiology with a focus in Dance and Biomechanics. Currently, I teach adapted dance classes at ABC Unified School District in Cerritos, as well as general education TK–6th grade. Over the years, I’ve taught everyone from toddlers in “mommy and me” classes to college students — and each group has taught me something new.

But my work is also personal. In 2023, my son Lucca was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD. He inspires me every single day. Starting this program is my way of honoring him — and supporting other kids and families who deserve a space where they can shine.

I also know what it’s like to feel “different.” I grew up in special education because of a learning disability, and more recently I was diagnosed with frontal lobe Epilepsy. These experiences have shaped me into who I am today. They’ve taught me that our differences are not limitations — they are our strengths.

Through dance, I hope to create an inclusive, joyful space where every child feels seen, celebrated, and confident in their own skin.