Step It Up Dance

Step It Up Dance 4Lyfe empowers youth and families in under-resourced communities through performing arts education that nurtures identity, unlocks potential, and strengthens community bonds.

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Empowering Youth Through Dance

Since 2007

Step It Up Dance, founded in 2007 by Juakila (Kiki) McConnell, was created to empower children to express their creativity, build confidence, and develop discipline through the art of dance.In 2014, we expanded our mission to provide a fun, engaging, and diverse dance education for children in East Palo Alto and surrounding communities.

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Our Vision

We envision a world where every child in East Palo Alto and beyond has access to joyful, high-quality arts education.

Exploring Culture

Through the Language of Dance

Our dance classes encompass a wide range of styles, including Praise Dance, Hip-Hop, Latin Hip-Hop, West African, Afro Haitian, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, Funk, and Lyrical Movement.Students also explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of each dance, gaining a deeper understanding of how these styles influence today’s culture and their community.

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Testimonials

Parent: Emma
Child: JanellI’m a busy mom of two kids and have to choose our activities carefully to manage our time and sanity. We need maximum value. My daughter recently started Step it up Dance with Ms Kiki in East Palo Alto.For me, it’s a 3 hour time commitment each week (it’s a schlep but I get time connecting with my daughter in traffic). For my daughter, it’s this magical time with her dance crew.

Parent: KathrynChildren: Olivia and GraceStep It Up Dance has been an incredible experience for our family! The instruction here is nothing short of excellent — the teacher is highly skilled, patient, and truly knows how to break down techniques in ways that even young dancers can understand and master.What really stands out, though, is how Step It Up Dance builds confidence. The instructor encourages each child to shine as an individual while also being part of a team.We’ve watched our kids go from shy beginners to proud, confident dancers who are excited to show what they’ve learned.We are so grateful to have found a studio that is nurturing, inspiring, and committed to excellence.Highly recommend Step It Up Dance for anyone looking for a studio that truly blends fun with focus, and skill with heart!

J. Rastafari (Parent)Step It Up Dance has been an integral part of my daughter’s journey from childhood into her teen years.Under Ms. Kiki’s guidance, she’s gained not only dance skills, but courage, confidence, and discipline.
What I love most is the way Ms. Kiki brings out the best in every child, helping them express their
authentic selves.

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Building Confidence and Connection Through Dance and Theater Arts

Our commitment is to nurture every child's growth through meaningful dance, playful activities, and fun gymnastics.As a family-oriented organization with longstanding members, we offer expert physical activity sessions and meaningful opportunities for social connection and community building.

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Class Schedule

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Support Us!

Every dollar brings more joy, more movement, and more confidence to our community’s kids.Together, we can make sure no child is left sitting on the sidelines.
Thank you for believing in the power of dance — and in the future of East Palo Alto’s youth.

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