Ms. Danielle Andriano ’01 is both a math teacher and a dancer, combining precision in numbers with the grace of dance in her schedule. Andriano has been teaching Algebra 2 Honors and Accelerated Pre-Calculus for sixteen years at EHS; during her college years, she was a long-term substitute here as well.

Beyond the classroom, Andriano has pursued dance since the age of three.

“I wouldn’t go on stage my first year,” said Andriano. “I was petrified. My mom was devastated. I was too afraid. And then, the next year, I went on stage and they haven’t been able to get me off stage.” This progression from initial stage fright to becoming a confident performer shows her personal development in navigating challenges, whether it be in the public eye of a classroom or a local dance studio.

“I like to bring joy and perform for people,” said Andriano.

Additionally, competing in dance has been a consistent part of Andriano’s life since childhood. She has been participating in dance competitions since the third grade, corroborating her long-standing dedication to her craft.

Balancing dance with her students, tennis, and running track during high school, Andriano learned valuable lessons in time management, prioritization, and teamwork. Additionally, she participated in a few musicals such as Guys & Dolls and Hello Dolly at EHS. This experience not only allowed her to stay involved in both school and dance classes but also taught her practical skills. She gained insight into the behind-the-scenes and learned to choreograph for musicals. Subsequently, she choreographed for productions like Barnum and Hairspray.

She transitioned into teaching, starting as a dance assistant in high school. In college, she started teaching her own classes. Once she temporarily took a break from dancing for a semester, she truly became cognizant of the place dance had in her life.

“I felt like something was missing from my life,” said Andriano. As a result, she realized that she could balance dance with her academics. The absence of dance cemented her connection with her passion, and she continued to teach dance at least once a week during college.

In the past decade, Adriano oversaw tap dance classes at her dance studio. “It’s nice to be able to spread my love of dance to other students and help them understand and try to help them get better if they’re discouraged with a step,” she shares.

Furthermore, she has been focused on helping students hone in on their rhythms and their timing. Two years ago, Andriano collaborated with one of her dance students for a tap performance at the school talent show. Additionally, she shared a recent experience from the Edison tree lighting ceremony where she dressed up as Santa and danced, showcasing that the love for dance knows no age limits.

Andriano’s love for dance extends beyond professional ambitions. She believes that even if dance is challenging to turn into a career, it shouldn’t deter someone from pursuing their passion beyond high school and college.

“I would like for people to understand there are always ways to continue to do what you love to do even if it’s not at the professional level.”