EDLA!’s work ensures that young people—many carrying the weight of economic hardship, family responsibility, and limited access to the arts—have a safe, supportive place to move, express themselves, and build confidence. Today, EDLA! is reaching 6,834 youth – 6,164 at 40 in-school locations and 670 at five after-school sites in under-resourced communities throughout Los Angeles.

Our programs cultivate more than dancers—they nurture collaborators, communicators, and emerging leaders who carry these skills into every area of their lives. EDLA!’s programs form a comprehensive continuum that supports youth from early childhood through young adulthood (ages 4-19).

In-School Program: EDLA!’s In-School Program integrates standards-based dance education into the school day across Los Angeles. Professional Teaching Artists collaborate with school administrators and educators to align programming with academic goals and student needs. Classes incorporate movement and mindfulness to support focus, emotional regulation, and engagement in learning. Each residency culminates in a performance that celebrates student growth and strengthens the school community.

After-School Programs: EDLA!’s year-round After-School Program offers sequential level dance training led by professional Teaching Artists. Students can study multiple dance forms—including ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, breaking, tap, and salsa—and often take more than one class per week. Every student performs twice annually, building confidence and pride through public performance.

Enrichment, Leadership, and College Pathways: To deepen impact and retain middle and high school students, EDLA! offers enrichment programs at no additional cost, serving more than 140 students annually. These include:
• Ballet Conservatory (three progressive levels through advanced pointe work)
• Audition-based performance groups (Companies 1 & 2)
• Student Creators Showcase (original student choreography)
• Solos Class (preparation for high school and college auditions)
• Mentor Match Program (monthly professional mentoring)
• Student Leadership Team (public speaking and leadership development)
• Student Teacher Education Program (STEP), providing hands-on job training