We have high expectations from our company members, putting the company as a priority is very important to the success of the program. Frequent absences and tardiness is not tolerated. The Company is a team, and everyone needs to work together and have an equal level of commitment.
It is important that we communicate with our parents and participants about what is going on with the company. There is a newsletter sent out at the beginning of each month. It includes what the Fortè dancers are doing that month, important dates, member birthdays, and more.
While the Dance Company is held at a higher standard than the other dance programs, at the end of the day we are a recreation-based program and it is important that our members have fun. It is our intention that the members have fun and enjoy performances, and competition not to worry about placement and trophies.
The Fortè Dance Company is one company; all dancers work together and encourage each other throughout the year. In order to improve on team unity, we have group outings, and parties for the Fortè members together throughout the year.
Companies focus a lot on technique throughout the season. It is our goal to make sure our dancers have proper technique and are fully prepared for their competition and performances.
As a reward to members who are upholding the expectations and values of the team; instructors choose a member to receive the honor of being Fortè Member of the Month!
Rachel Arendt
Is the performing arts coordinator and has been a dance instructor for over 32 years and with the Carol Stream Park District for over 17 years.
Linda Gawrych
Jazz and ballet instructor, she previously oversaw the Dance N’ Style performance troupe and has been with the Carol Stream Park District for almost 23 years.
Paige Arendt
Forte Hip Hop Instructor. Paige started dancing in a mommy and me class and her mom was the dance teacher! She fell in love with dance and ended up being a competition dancer from a young age through her senior year of high school. She has been teaching dance for 4 years.