Maria has taught dance to students of all ages for the past twenty four years. She works with students of all ages and levels and travels internationally to teach. She is on Guest Faculty at the world renowned Broadway Dance Center in New York City and since 2021 has been on staff at Acrobatic Arts working as an adjudicator and course conductor. In 2012 Maria was selected to be a mentor for the program Creating Opportunities developed by world-renowned choreographers Lisette Bustamante and Chonique Sneed.

Maria loves helping students build their confidence and express themselves as artists. The confidence that is built in the dance studio, carries over into everyday life :-)

Maria holds a B.A. in Psychology and Masters in Reading Education. She also holds a Connecticut Teaching Certificate and is certified through Fitness, Gymnastics and Acro federations (listed below).

Certifications:
- AFAA Group Fitness Certified -
- bodyART Certified Instructor -
- Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR and AED certified -
- ACRO levels 1-6 through USA Gymnastics -
-Acrobatic Arts AAC1, AAC2, AAC3 -
- USA Gymnastics Safety Certified - Artistic Gymnastics Coach -
- State of Connecticut Certified Coach -

-Acrobatic Arts Certified Adjudicator and Course Conductor -

Maria Cherniske: Dancer. Teacher. Choreographer. Coach. Mentor.

"Thank you so much for all you taught my daughter this year. She could barely do a cartwheel and now she is doing so much! It has really boosted her confidence. Thank you."

-Parent of 8 year old student-

"Thank you for the years of endless, amazing choreography. I never leave your class without saying 'That was my favorite choreography of all time!' The experience is priceless."

-Alexa: College Student-

"I haven't met someone who believes in their passions and others as much as you. Thank you for being such a supportive and attentive teacher. It has made dance so enjoyable."

-Alyssa: College student-

"You lit a spark under the group and ignited the passion of many dancers. You are a mentor & inspiration. You have touched my daughter's soul in a way that no other teacher has."

-Parent of college student-

"I've learned so much about myself in your class as both a dancer and as a person. I will never forget what you've taught me and I will never stop moving forward."

- Amy: College Student-