About CDI
Mission
One step at a time, California Dance Institute improves and transforms the lives of public school students across Los Angeles through the joy and rigor of dance and music instruction. CDI’s life affirming programming teaches not just dance, but provides children with the skills to confidently take on the challenges of the world.
History
Founder and Director Carole Valleskey, formerly a principal dancer with the Joffrey Ballet, started CDI in 2001. In its 24-year history, CDI has served over 22,000 Los Angeles County children.
CDI is the California associate of the National Dance Institute (NDI), founded in 1976 by New York City Ballet’s Jacques d’Amboise. NDI's award-winning methodology has inspired two dozen programs across the world.
The Children We Serve
80% are on the free lunch program
75% are Hispanic, 8% are African American, 7% are Caucasian, 7% are AAPI
53% are of Limited English Proficiency
2% are Special Education students
Highly Trained Teaching Artists
CDI employs professional dancers and musicians. Each class is taught by a lead teacher, assistant teacher, and a musical accompanist, all of whom have been trained in the rigorous NDI teaching methodology. CDI is one of the only programs in Los Angeles to have live music in every public school dance class!
Collaborations
A.N.D.I. (Associates of the National Dance Institute)
CDI is an official Associate of the National Dance Institute. ANDI, inspired by the work of Jacques d’Amboise, strengthens associate organizations by providing a forum to share best practices and promote the growth of community arts and education programs.
CDI is collaborating with Westside Ballet, a premier dance school in Santa Monica, to identify overlooked talent in our partner schools. CDI recommends students for ongoing training through Westside's scholarship program. Our joint goal is expand access to dance education for underserved communities on the West Side of Los Angeles.
CDI offers intergenerational workshops through EngAge, bringing community members of all ages together to dance and connect.
Students from the Silverlake Conservatory of Music greet audience members with rousing tunes at our Event of the Year! We have also featured students from the Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles.
Culturally Relevant Pedagogy
CDI empowers students to express themselves and their cultural background. Classes feature Spanish, Armenian, Russian, and American Sign Language, among others. CDI addresses systemic inequities and promotes inclusivity and cultural representation in the arts.