About The Dance StEP

What started as neighborhood kids dancing for fun in a suburban basement grew into something much bigger than anyone imagined.

The Dance Step began with founder Debi Schnell, who shared her love of dance by teaching children in her home. As word spread and enrollment continued to grow, she outgrew her basement studio and moved classes to a local church basement—creating a welcoming place where young dancers could learn, grow, and feel at home.

In 1995, The Dance Step officially opened its doors.

Miss Debi brought together a team of talented instructors, including Lucinda Bird, a former Cleveland Ballet dancer. Before long, Cindy joined as a partner and eventually took over ownership of the studio.

Among her students were Erica Drap and Michelle Serra, two dancers who quickly developed a deep connection to The Dance Step and viewed it as their second home. Under Miss Cindy’s mentorship, they grew from students to assistant teachers and eventually became instructors leading classes of their own.

When Miss Cindy’s family relocated to Pennsylvania, Erica and Michelle stepped forward to continue the studio’s legacy.

In 2001, at just 21 and 22 years old, Miss Erica and Miss Michelle became owners of The Dance Step. Having grown up in the studio themselves since the age of 15, they were committed to preserving what made it special—a place where every child feels welcomed, supported, and encouraged.

At The Dance Step, students aren’t just names on a roster—they become part of the family.

As the studio community continued to grow, The Dance Step eventually outgrew its beloved church basement. In the summer of 2012, the studio moved into its current home, creating a larger space for dancers to learn, create, and thrive.

That same year, the studio experienced an unimaginable loss when Miss Erica unexpectedly passed away at the age of 33.

Today, Miss Michelle continues to carry forward the values and vision that shaped The Dance Step from the beginning. Together with her dedicated team, she remains committed to providing high-quality dance education in a positive and supportive environment where children can build confidence, develop self-esteem, express themselves creatively, and discover a lifelong love of dance.

We are proud of our history, grateful for our community, and honored to continue welcoming generations of dancers into our award-winning studio family.