Team
Setting the Standard for Dance Excellence
Meet the passionate instructors and staff who bring dance to life at Glens Falls Guiding Steps.
Miss Debi
Owner and Founder
Debra Wood began dancing at age three and was invited to train professionally at nine. She studied intensely, six days a week, building a foundation that shaped her career. Her training included jazz with Phil Black and Luigi in Manhattan, tap with Fred Kelly in NJ, and ballet with Nancy King and Alexis Dolinoff.
Debra performed in summer stock, nightclubs, TV, commercials, and opened for stars like Pat Boone, The Shirelles, and even Big Bird. She later created “ProKids,” a Broadway children’s showcase featuring young performers from shows like Annie, Peter Pan, and Evita.
DMA certified and affiliated with DEA, Debra owned studios in NJ and the Adirondacks, teaching and choreographing for generations of dancers — many of whom built professional careers.
In 1992, after a life-threatening childbirth, Debra’s faith deepened. She dedicated her gifts to glorifying God, founding The Praise Dance Company in 1997, rooted in Psalm 149:3 and Psalm 150. She continues to nurture young dancers in both artistry and faith through Guiding Steps Dance School.
Note from director: “The Lord has given me the opportunity to-do so much more than teach dance. He has provided a way to work for Him extending His Kingdom.”
Miss Aly
Dance Instructor
Alyson Cook has been dancing with Guiding Steps for over 20 years and teaching for 9 — so you could say she knows her stuff. Starting at age 6, she’s trained in every style she could get her hands (and feet) on, performing at events like Project Dance, Disney World, and Excel. Alyson’s passion is helping her students grow, shine, and fall in love with dance just like she did
Miss Alannah
Dance Instructor
I’ve been dancing since I was 2 years old, right here at Guiding Steps. From recitals to competitions — and even performances in Times Square and Disney Springs — I’ve loved every second of it. Along the way, I’ve student-taught countless classes, and now I’m beyond excited to step into the spotlight as an instructor. Let’s dance!
Angis
Marketing and Communications Director
Angis Kellish is the Marketing and Communications Director at Guiding Steps Dance Studio, with a background in branding, social media management, and community engagement. Certified in social media management and a former dancer of 13 years, Angis brings a unique blend of creativity, strategy, and firsthand studio experience. Passionate about promoting the arts and connecting with the community, Angis works to ensure every message reflects the heart, purpose, and spirit of Guiding Steps.
Miss Lauren
Dance Instructor
A native Texan born in Burleson, I’ve been passionate about ballet since I was a little girl — always on my tippy toes, twirling, and daydreaming. I trained under Margo Dean at Margo Dean School of Ballet in Fort Worth, TX, where I was lucky to learn from top-tier dancers from all over the world. Performing at the Will Rogers Theater and doing ballet demonstrations for local schools are some of my favorite memories.
I’m a certified Bolshoi Vaganova teacher and a student of many ballet styles, currently training with Runqiao Du and Mrs. Fernanda, while continuing my education in choreography. I’ve also had the privilege of studying with Stefania Nardi at Vermont Center of Dance Education for three years. Ulyana Lopatkina and Svetlana Zakharova have long been my inspirations through both challenges and growth.
Outside the studio, I’m a wife, mother, and the creator of Wolf and Moon Apothecary, making plant-based skin care and remedies. You’ll find me in the greenhouse, cooking cultural dishes, cheering at soccer games, or at the dirt track with my son. Ballet remains my first love, and I’m grateful every day to share it with others.