rachel carter

ACADEMY FACULTY

Rachel started dancing at the age of 5 and is an accomplished ballet teacher and performer with 40 years of diverse dancing experience. Her training and education include five years on a full scholarship at Pacific Northwest Ballet and participation in the San Francisco Ballet Summer Intensive. She is DVIDA certified with an Associate of Dance Degree and has been awarded High Honors in American Style Smooth. 

Fluent in Balanchine and Vaganova dance styles, Rachel possesses in-depth knowledge of ballet history and a demonstrated expert knowledge of dance. Her expertise extends to injury prevention and implementation, ensuring the safety and well-being of her students. With exceptional classroom and attendance management skills, Rachel consistently delivers highly-engaging lesson plans that keep her students motivated and inspired.

Rachel's achievements as a dancer are notable, including titles such as the Colorado Star Ball Champion in 2015, Maryland DanceSport State Champion in International Standard Ballroom in 2011, and three-time National Ballroom Champion in 2011 and 2014. Rachel has performed and been featured in prestigious ballet companies such as Colorado Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Olympic Ballet Theater, and Springfield Ballet, taking on memorable roles in productions like Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, Cinderella, and The Nutcracker. At age 10, Rachel danced the role of Clara with The Springfield Ballet. The following year she was asked to return as a Professional Guest Artist to perform the roles of Snow Queen and Dew Drop.

In her role as an Instructor at the Colorado School of Dance since 2016, Rachel was responsible for the academic progress and growth of over 150 students. She teaches classical ballet, pointe, variations, and ballet history to students ranging from ages 7 to 18 while maintaining a strong retention rate. Rachel also coaches and tests students in ballet technique and repertory, ensuring their success through proper level placement. Her expertise extends beyond technique, as she trains performers in stagecraft, building self-confidence, and developing discipline and artistry.

Additionally, Rachel has  played an integral role in preparing the school's dance curriculum, including the creation of new choreography for competitions, recitals, and special performances. She has successfully staged ballet performances involving large numbers of dancers, production workers, design workers, and volunteers, including contributing to the annual performance of "The official Nutcracker of Parker." Rachel is passionate about promoting the health and well-being of performers and students, actively participating in injury prevention and implementation programs. 

Rachel's commitment to excellence and her ability to foster a positive learning environment have earned her praise from students, parents, and colleagues. With her professionalism and dedication to her craft, she continues to make a significant impact on the lives of her students.