Denise Reeves was nominated by the parent of a student, Tiffany Lange.
Mrs. Reeves has been teaching ballet at Pebblebrook High School's performing arts program, Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts (CCCEPA), for many years. She has taught Ms. Lange's daughter, Jordan, for the past two years. During this time, Jordan's personal and professional commitment to dance has grown beyond what one could imagine.
Mrs. Reeves does not just give excellent ballet instruction - she is a fantastic mentor, too. She regularly discusses professional opportunities and training with Jordan so that they can make the best decisions in pursuit of Jordan's dreams to be a ballet dancer. She encourages her to push harder and reach farther than even Jordan thinks she can."
Mrs. Reeves works hard to challenge Jordan outside of the classroom. She spent many hours of her own time helping Jordan prepare a summer audition tape for the Paris Opera Ballet in France and the Royal Ballet in England. When Jordan experiences rejection, Mrs. Reeves works with her to strengthen her weak areas and navigate the mental challenges that ballet dancers experience. Jordan's confidence as a dancer and a person is very much because of Mrs. Reeves' mentoring.
This past summer, Mrs. Reeves came to see Jordan perform with the Joffrey Ballet School in New York. She also introduced Jordan to Tyler Hanes, a current Broadway actor who graduated from PHS. Mr. Hanes brought Ms. Lange and her daughter on stage after his performance in CATS.
"That is an experience that neither of us will ever forget, and would not have been possible without Mrs. Reeves," Ms. Lange said. "Tyler graduated from PHS years ago, but Mrs. Reeves continues to support him and her other former students who are performing."
She has trained many Broadway performers, and helps her current students connect with them.
As a teacher herself, Ms. Lange is often inspired by Mrs. Reeves' dedication to her students. With Mrs. Reeves' guidance, the students of Pebblebrook High School's performing arts program, CCCEPA, often go on to perform for a living.
"While the program itself truly prepares students for a difficult profession in the performing arts, Denise Reeves is a great credit to the success my daughter has already seen and experienced." Lange said.
Mrs. Reeves regularly takes time out of her busy schedule to answer parents' questions and guide them in making appropriate decisions for their children. She researches summer programs and makes suggestions on the best places for Jordan to train. Ms. Lange values Mrs. Reeves' professional guidance above almost everyone else's. She is a LifeChanger!
Ms. Denise was instrumental to my growth as a dancer, performer, and artist. When I was training with Ms. Denise, I was primarily an actor who was trying my best to ground myself in Classical Ballet technique- all this in an effort to achieve acceptances at my auditions for collegiate musical theater programs. I was behind, but Ms. Denise was tirelessly available to answer my questions. She taught me how to do things with my body where others had since failed. She supported me with a positive, loving encouragement that filled my tank with energy on the days where I doubted myself most. She did this unprompted, and without my asking for it. They say that people remember how you've made them feel, and Ms. Denise made me feel far more talented, accomplished, and worthy than I thought myself deserving of at the time: always. She never stopped believing in me. It was that energy that pushed me to in turn accomplish what I didn't think I could. Without the patience, kindness, and constant support I received from her, I simply would not be where I am today. Her own understanding of her body, the training she has received, and her integration of that information into her processes as a dancer are unmatched; they have also lead her to become the awesome teacher she is today. I mean that word in the truest sense possible: I am filled with awe at the gifted teacher I have had the pleasure to know. She is constantly coming up with new ways to convey information. She is passionately dedicated to what she has to teach, and more importantly, the art of teaching itself. More than I am grateful for the knowledge she has imparted to me as a student, I am grateful for the example she has set for me as an artist. Ms. Denise's unwillingness to be content with what she knows- and constant movement towards what she doesn't- is a hallmark of her inability to settle for anything less than growth. This energy can only be referred to as a love affair with life, her art, and her teaching; it is this infectious aspect of who she is that I have sought to bottle up and take with me everywhere I go. I have returned to CCCEPA (Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts) several times to teach master classes since my own graduation, and on one occasion I had returned to teach a week of acting classes on the psycho-physical theater techniques of Jerzy Grotowksi. Catching up with Ms. Denise is always a delight, but I was truly surprised at her investment and curiosity in the work I was doing. I shared her excitement at the potential that this training could have for dancers as well as actors, and she roped me into adjusting some of the exercises I had prepared for the acting class, gearing them towards the dancers instead. We eagerly plotted to spend a class period together with the dancers that afternoon, experimenting with our new ideas! The class went well, but what I will never forget is her excitable willingness to try something unheard of in the name of higher learning. Pairing Ballet with a physical acting pedagogy that is completely unrelated, in an attempt to achieve new insights into the art of dance is a prime example of the life changing action in question. To me, it is undeniable proof of Ms. Denise's finite commitment to the ideals of education, dedication to growth, and unquenchable curiosity- palpable both in the classroom, and out. It is my favorite part of who she is as a person, and as an educator. Her obligation to me as an teacher ended some years before, and yet, my life was changed once again on that day with Denise Reeves. I would be lying if I said I was the least bit surprised.
I have worked with Mrs. Reeves for the last five years. During this time I have seen her put in countless hours on behalf of her students, and work tirelessly to make sure they are given everything they need to be successful. On top of that, she makes sure that her students always feel welcome and are in a positive environment. She not only teaches them about the world of ballet and dance, but listens to them, and helps them with aspects of their every day lives. Mrs. Reeves also puts in copious amounts of her personal time to write college and scholarship recommendations for her students that make sure the recipients know how talented our students are. In order to further help her students, Mrs. Reeves spends her summers traveling to various parts of the country participating in clinics and dance intensives to not only keep her art and abilities up to professional standard, but to bring back new teaching methods and ideas to the students. Her dedication, optimism, and care makes her a "Life Changer" for everyone she works with, student and adult alike.
As an educator, your work does not end at 3:00 PM. It is on-going. And that is what is so remarkable about Denise Reeves. She cares outside of the classroom as much as she does inside. Her work as an educator is commendable for not only this, but the way she opens the eyes of students to worlds they did not believe was possible to them. It is amazing to witness the changes she helps to foster in young people. I love her continuous search for more knowledge, as she attends every possible workshop or intensive teacher study that could potentially benefit her students. Ms. Reeves is the definition of a "life changer." Not because of what she KNOWS, but because of what she GIVES. And the young people at Pebblebrook High School are all the better for it.
I had the privilege of having two children attend Cobb County's Performing Arts School, Pebblebrook where Ms. Reeves runs the Dance depart. My Son started as a vocal major/dance minor - he had only had 9 months of dance training prior in tap and jazz. Under Ms. Reeves guidance he developed a great love of ballet. He was determined to pursue classical ballet and Ms. Reeves not only gave him the training but more importantly she gave him her love and support and encouraged him to pursue his dream. Ms. Reeves is one of the most dedicated, supportive educators I've ever met to the extent of going to see my son in Washington, DC at dance camp and also to see one of his shows when
he was in college in Indiana at her own expense and personal time. Due in part to Ms. Reeves encouragement, my Son pursed his passion, received a degree from Indiana University in Classical Ballet and just finished his fourth season as a professional ballet dancer w St. Louis ballet. She truly deserves this award because she epitomizes the term "Life Changer".
Denise Reeves has been influencing and changing lives for decades. I first met Denise when I was a Pilates student almost twenty years ago. Not only did I learn the practice of Pilates from her, but Denise helped me realize my passion for teaching it as well. Denise spent countless hours guiding me through the apprenticeship and into the beginning of my career. She was always there to answer questions I had both professionally and personally, and I know she is still there for me.
Denise's dedication to her students is unparalleled. She is a true artist with a servant's heart as she shapes young adults into not only amazing performers but outstanding adults as well. Teaching is not just a job to her - it is her calling in life. She is always pushing forward to learn more, experience more and share everything with her students. Every single student she has is one of the luckiest people in the world. Denise will guide and encourage them while they are learning their craft and building their careers. Denise is truly a life changer!
What is a Lifechanger? In education, teachers are considered life changers because they provide the tools necessary for all students to grow and succeed in life. However, not all teachers change lives in as dramatic a way as Denise Reeves has and does on a daily basis. I was fortunate that my office as assistant administrator of Pebblebrook High School was next door to Mrs. Reeves’ office. I got to see firsthand how she patiently took the time to know every student she had as well as to know their dreams and ambitions. She took young men who had no formal dance classes but a desire to learn and shaped them into not only phenomenal dancer with full scholarships to higher education but also responsible civic minded young men. I run into several student who have been taught by Mrs. Reeves and they all have the same drive, the same respect, and the same dedication.
I remember one young man who was having family issues and had missed several days of school. Mrs. Reeves was calling daily but to no avail. She came to me with her concerns and we were able to find out that the student was having difficulty getting to the bus stop since they had moved. We were able with Denise’s guidance to work with the family to solve this student’s issue allowing him to continue in the program.
It amazed me as a veteran educator to see so many students coming back when they could to see Mrs. Reeves and to share their accomplishments. Her caring and loving yet stern way with students has made her an adjunct mother to most of her students. To understand that she takes seriously what she does and spends most of her summer going to clinics and visiting other dance studios only shows the dedication she has for her students. I remember her taking a trip to St. Petersburg to student ballet and coming back so excited about what she saw and learned. She was so ready to share.
When I think of a Life Changer, Denise Reeves is my number one pick. She truly changes the lives of all that she comes in contact with.
As a 30 year old professional dancer who's about to make a career shift to focus on choreography and arts administration, I can't help but think back to how I arrived here. Denise Reeves was not only a part of pushing my artistry as a dancer and a performer, but constantly gave me opportunities to explore choreography and other facets of dance. Little did I know she was setting me up for a career of longetivity. A career in the arts that didn't have to end once the dancing did. I am thankful daily for her passion to educate young dancers about dance history, dance vocabulary and other tools necessary for success in this field- information I'm still utilizing! Denise Reeves is dedicated to shaping not only top-notch technical dancers, but valuable members of the performing arts community at large. I am grateful for a continued relationship with Ms. Denise- a true Life Changer!
I have had the privilege of getting to know Denise Reeves for the 4 years my daughter attended the Performing Arts Magnet at Pebblebrook High School. I have watched Denise go the extra mile to make sure her students were prepared and ready for the next phase of their life and encouraged them to dream big. I remember her sending home brochures for dance camps and workshops that she thought would be good for Grace. She never hesitated answering any questions I had as a parent. I often volunteered in the costume room to help prepare all the costumes for the productions and concerts the school performed. Right before one of the dance concerts, Denise was helping us make headpieces for the concert. She didn't hesitate to jump in and help. That is who she is. Her impact on Grace has been immeasurable. She truly is a life changer!
Denise Reeves has been my colleague in the performing arts magnet program for over 20 years. She is a consummate professional who sets high standards for herself and her students. Denise is tireless in her efforts to make enrichment opportunities available to all students in her charge. Her former students have gone on to great success in dance companies, with cruise lines, and in 52 shows on Broadway. Hers is an example of professionalism to which all teachers should aspire. She's adored by her current and former students and highly respected by her peers throughout the United States. If there has ever been a perfect example of a "life changer," it's Denise Reeves. I commend her to you wholeheartedly.
The full-time faculty at Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts at Pebblebrook High School are all accomplished professional artists in their own right, and Denise Reeves is no exception. Over two and a half decades ago, when I was privileged to join the cast of The Georgia Ballet's The Nutcracker in an acting role, Denise was an esteemed member of that company's corps de ballet. Now, as an adjunct faculty acting coach at CCCEPA, I am able to observe first-hand Denise's profound influence on her students. Pebblebrook's Performing Arts Program provides world-class training in Dance, Vocal, Drama, and Technical Theatre. It is a unique feature of this incredible school that it allows cross-training in these arts in one of the most positive, creatively nurturing environments? I've ever witnessed. Denise trains her students not only in dance but in dance history and the art of choreography. Her own ballet choreography in dance concerts is always innovative and imaginative, inspiring her students to new artistic heights. To see her in the hallways outside the studio is to see a dynamo of positive energy, always encouraging, always enlightening, and because of the interdisciplinary nature of the program, Denise touches the lives of dancers, actors, singers, and technicians alike. Denise Reeves is the very definition of a LifeChanger and, as well, is a warm and wonderful person to know.
A knowledgeable and creative artist, Denise Reeves has an astounding ability to help students achieve, while creating a classroom studio environment that is safe, upbeat, open and professional. Always willing to answer questions, to provide insights and to help her students embrace a balanced foundation of Ballet technique, Ms. Reeves is a master instructor and wonderful mentor. She is a joy to collaborate with and it is no surprise to me, as one of her colleagues and Ballet class accompanist, that she has been nominated as a "Life Changer".
The people who deserve the MOST credit never get it. That's why I am so excited to write on behalf of Denise Reeves. It's only right that she was nominated for the Life changer of the year Award. I've had the pleasure of teaching and choreographing on her students at Pebblebrook High School for about 18 years. It's so amazing to hear and see how much she cares about getting the best for her students. It's rare that people show up with great spirits who really care about changing the lives of students. She is constantly pushing herself to learn more to better serve her students. She makes it her business to make sure her students are recognized for their hard work and talent. Teachers are rarely rewarded for the time and heart they put in to their students. I think Denise is one of those special people. When you look at the journeys and careers of her students, it's truly inspiring to know she had a huge hand in their formative years. A Life Changer indeed!!!
I am pleased to write on behalf of Ms. Denise Reeves, who has been a hugely influential person in the life of my son Billy, who attended Pebblebrook High School's performing arts magnet program from 2012 through 2016. When I first met her at Open House freshman year, Ms. Denise was highly encouraging to me as a parent of a young teen who had a passion for the arts. Ms. Denise has always encouraged my son. She saw something in him the first day he was in her class and she spent everyday pushing him further than even knew he was capable of. She took him under her wing and helped him develop. I watched him blossom into a beautiful ballet dancer thanks to her enthusiasm and encouragement from the very beginning. She gave up her personal time to help coach him on the variation he submitted to colleges just because he asked, and took phone calls from me after hours and on weekends during her personal time to answer questions I had and coach me through how to help my son reach his goals. As a parent, I truly appreciate all of the time and energy she put into my child and other children as well, helping them reach their goals. She is truly a life changer!
When I think about influential people and teachers in my life Denise Reeves is among the top. She is truly selfless and the most encouraging. She teaches, not only with a listening ear, but also with a firm example. She is the epitome of tough love, as well as the master student. One of the reasons she is a life changing teacher is because she continues to learn and show us that being a student goes far beyond school. Being a student of life is what she instills in her pupils. Long after I graduated High School, I returned to her for advice, and inspiration. Thank you Ms. Denise for being a strong presence in my life in the past, present, and future.
There are not many people that I can say that have changed my life but, certainly Ms.Denise Reeves is one of them.
Ms.Denise taught me through out my high school career at Pebblebrook and I can truly say that I would not be the person I am today without her. Ms.Denise the source of artistic growth and development throughout the dance department at the Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts. Not only has Ms.Denise been the dance coordinator since it's conception. She has also provided opportunities for her dancers such as the Governors Honors Program and the Regional & National High School Festival's.
Through such programs Ms.Denise allows her students to find themselves and discover their own passions and new talents within dance. Ms.Denise always allows her dancers to follow their dreams and is always there to gently guide them
to their goals. I have been a product of Ms.Denise's guidance. If it was not for Ms.Denise I would not have had the courage to choreograph and had the courage to embark on new opportunities. That had led to awards such as "Outstanding Student Choreography."
Ms.Denise is a true life changer, and I'm sure any her students can tell you that. If it was not for Ms.Denise I would not be the dancer or choreographer that I am today.
I have known Denise Reeves for over 20 years. I had the pleasure of working with her during my years at the Georgia Ballet , we performed together and we were on faculty at the Georgia Ballet School. She is a dedicated artist and a truly inspirational teacher. She strives to bring her students the very best in dance education, always giving them the coaching and guidance they need to pursue a professional career. She is a wonderful mentor. She challenges her students to push themselves beyond what they think is possible. Her dedication reaches far beyond the classroom, she helps her students find the best path to ensure their success- the right summer intensive, the best college choices , and helps students make connections with working professionals. She helps her students reach their goals and changes their lives.
Ms. Denise Reeves was my first ever ballet instructor at Pebblebrook High School. One of the most passionate and dedicated teachers that I know, if it wasn't for her I could not be a Senior dance major at the University of Oklahoma today. Learning ballet is like learning a new language and of course with no prior training or experience I had no idea what I was doing. But when I saw Ms. Denise doing Pilates excercises and stretching all of her splits beside me in class, believe me I was inspired. I never had any intent of becoming a dancer when I entered high school, but by the end of my four years with her I decided to take a leap of faith. I'm proud to say I was taught by Reeves and I'm so very thankful for her vouching for me in taking my own journey in dance. She has always kept it real and encouraged me to continue dancing even when I couldn't find the strength to believe in myself. Thank you Ms. Denise for not only making me think critically as a human, artist, and dancer, but for being my first ever ballet instructor.
Mrs. Denise changed my life. When I entered the Dance program at Pebblebrook as a wide-eyed freshman, Mrs. Denise help me settle in with her calm, but passionate teaching. She transformed me as a dancer, but also, more importantly, as a person. Her classes were educational, fun, inspired, and fresh, and I look back on my time in her classes with warmth and fondness. I am truly grateful to have had Mrs. Denise as a mentor throughout my high school experience, as well as after. Mrs. Denise doesn't gloat or crave attention, and she's not one to ask for the spotlight to be on her. Rather, she shines a spotlight on each and every one of her students as she guides them through her well-scripted lessons plans, and through life. I'm so happy to know her and to say that Mrs. Denise Reeves was a LifeChanger for me.
Ms. Denise changed my life forever. I came to CCCEPA with no dance experience and no intention to dance but after a year working with her I found dancing to be my passion. She has a true connection with her students and really has a wonderful teaching style for all people to learn. I truly have loved spending 3 years with her as my teacher and I can't believe I only have one year left. Ms. Denise has such a passion for teaching the students at CCCEPA as well as her wonderful connection to the dance world and creates connections for these students to branch off into the dance world. I believe Ms. Denise has really earned this nomination and title if she wins, and I hope she does win!!
Denise Reeves is not only a fabulous dance instructor but a tremendous human being! She takes great care with all of her students to provide the kinds of growth experiences that will lead them to success in all aspects of their lives. She is a life-long learner and never stops finding ways to improve her instruction and her own personal growth. Denise is truly one of the most dedicated and passionate people I have the pleasure to know and is well-deserving of this nomination!
Over the past 2 consecutive school years, I had the privilege of being Ms. Reeves' evaluating administrator. Ms. Reeves is the quintessential professional. She is not only a master of her own craft, but exemplifies all of the characteristics anyone would want in their own child's teacher. Ms. Reeves is patient, kind, enthusiastic, honest, and give students the opportunity to reach their dreams. Ms. Reeves is always available before and after school to meet with students and parents and about any concerns they may have. Additionally, she goes above and beyond the call of duty to provide "out of the classroom experiences" for her students such as competitions, college visits, and scholarship audition opportunities. She is a LifeChanger!
