The South Carolina Dance Association (SCDA), a distinguished arm of the South Carolina Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (SCAHPERD), proudly announces the appointment of Sara Monts as its new president. A seasoned dance educator from Nursery Road Elementary School-Arts Magnet, Monts brings a wealth of experience and passion to her new role.
In expressing her excitement for the upcoming year, Monts stated, “As president of SCDA, I am looking forward to a year of continued advocacy and advancement of the dance profession in South Carolina.”
Monts’ journey into dance began at the age of two when her parents enrolled her in ballet and tap classes, igniting a lifelong passion. Her extensive background as a competitive dancer, college dance major at Columbia College, and a performer across South Carolina, the East Coast, and Europe has shaped her into a dedicated advocate for dance education.
Having spent the last three years at Nursery Road Elementary School – Arts Magnet, Monts has focused on implementing and expanding her craft as an educator. She takes the reins from the outgoing President, Maddy Thiemann, who served with dedication and passion as a dance teacher in School District Five at Dutch Fork High School.
Reflecting on her tenure, Thiemann remarked, “I’m thankful to have served as your SCDA President. My goals were to increase membership, fortify our committees, and update our constitution and bylaws to move forward as an association.”
Sara Monts steps into this prestigious role with the support and endorsement of Steven Puckett, School District Five Coordinator of Athletics, Physical Education, & Arts. Puckett expressed, “I am very excited to see Sara elected to this position to represent her students, school, our district, and her peers across the state. This is a prestigious position, and it speaks to the quality of leadership and dance programming across School District Five. I have no doubt she will do an amazing job.”
Under Monts’ leadership, the SCDA is poised to continue its mission of promoting and enhancing dance education throughout the state, fostering a community of passionate dance professionals and enthusiasts.