Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Schirra.
Hi Emily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hi! My name is Emily and I am the San Diego franchise manager at WEBBY Dance Company, a mobile creative movement program offering dance and gymnastics classes at schools throughout the community.
I took my first dance class when I was 4 years old and instantly fell in love. At RJAD in my hometown of Ramona, I was trained in a variety of techniques from ballet to hip-hop. My love for teaching was born in my high school dance program where I was given the opportunity to choreograph and student teach in technique classes.
My first son was born during the pandemic which led me to become a stay at home mom. When I was ready to return to work, it was important for me to find a position that I was passionate about and would be suitable for a working mom. My dream since childhood was to be a dance instructor. In the past, dancing and teaching had only ever been a hobby or side gig, but I was ready and determined to turn this into a career.
I found WEBBY and was hired as the San Diego franchise manager in August of 2022. I started with 1 instructor on my team and 100 students enrolled. In less than 3 years, WEBBY San Diego now has a team of 10 instructors and teaches dance and gymnastics to over 600 students! We continue to grow our business as more schools offer WEBBY Dance and Gymnastics enrichment classes. In 2023, we launched WEBBY Las Vegas under my management.
I absolutely love my team, our students and their families, the directors and teachers at our schools, and all things WEBBY! I look forward to becoming a WEBBY franchise owner in the near future.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being a working mom has many challenges. Working from home and knowing when to turn off WEBBY mode and switch to mom mode was a big one for me. I learned to balance work and life in a healthy way and am so grateful for the flexibility this company has given me to me a mom first and business woman second. There are constant opportunities for learning and growth when running a business, and fortunately WEBBY has an incredibly supportive corporate team who have guided me every step of the way.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I began dancing and performing at the age of 4. I have worked as a competitive cheer and dance coach and as an instructor in dance studios and school programs. I discovered that I had a special gift with the littles and now specialize in creative movement in early childhood education. It is a fulfilling experience to teach tiny dancers their first steps of technique and watch them perform in a recital for the very first time. I love that I get to be a part of creating core memories for children and their families. I am currently continuing my education in early childhood education through UCLA Extension.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I am lucky to have such an incredible team of WEBBY instructors. Our program is only possible with a strong team. I have worked hard and learned how to meaningfully select instructors who are a great fit for WEBBY. Together, we have created a dynamic team that boasts extensive backgrounds in dance and gymnastics, positive attitudes, professionalism, and a genuine passion for working with children!
Pricing:
- Starts at $55 per month
- $25 Registration Fee
- Staff Rates / Multi-Class Discounts / Sibling Discounts
Contact Info:
- Website: https://webbydancecompany.com
- Instagram: @webbysandiego
