"One hundred years from now it will not matter what kind of house you lived in,
how much money you made, or what your clothes were like.
But the world may be a better because you were important in the life of a child."
I came to BAB in 1994 as a stubborn brat. Jeannine quickly took me under her wing and shaped me up! During my four years at BAB, Jeannine taught me how to be humble, how to make my own costumes, how to “go with the flow”in last minute theater emergencies, how to teach dance classes, how to run the office/business, not to mention great training in ballet. JB showed me that I needed jazz, tap, modern & tumbling to be a well-rounded dancer, which now I know is necessary to have. Jeannine prepared me for the big leagues both mentally & physically. She taught me to remember that I’ve never “arrived” and I must always strive for improvement. Thanks Jeannine for educating me beyond the dance floor and giving me a solid foundation in which to enter my years at Pacific Northwest Ballet and now as I enter my professional career at San Francisco Ballet.
Courtney Wright , BAB Student 1994-1998
I feel honored that I had the opportunity to learn from Jeannine. Not only did I learn how to dance; I also learned confidence, teamwork, leadership and hard work. When I first came to dance at the studio I was very withdrawn, and Jeannine opened up a new world for me with her encouragement and enthusiasm. She brought out the best in me and gave me many opportunities that I would not have had otherwise. Even though I am no longer dancing, I know that everything I learned from Jeannine has helped me accomplish all of my goals in life. I look back on the times I spent at the studio as some of the best in my life. Thank you Jeannine!Brynn Warriner, Former BAB Student
When I first came to Belliston Ballet I was a very shy eight year old. After being around JB’s energetic and wild personality as well as gaining many duties around the studio, she forced me out of my comfort zone. As a result I became more confident and comfortable around people. I have learned so many things from JB such as; teaching classes, sewing, working with people, and answering questions. Most importantly she taught me to dance. I have learned from her that you always have room to become better. Like Jeannine always says, “If the sky isn’t high enough, reach for the stars”. Love ya.Melissa Ahlert, BAB Student 1991-2004
I started dancing at BAB because I truly loved ballet. Dancing brought me so much joy and dancing on stage was such a thrill. But at the time, I did not know that these years of ballet classes would teach me more about life than anything else. Somewhere along the way during so many years of practicing, rehearsing, & performing Jeannine taught me the most important lessons I have ever learned. She taught me how to have the confidence to face even the most difficult situations. Jeannine showed me how to accept criticism and use it to improve myself. These are things that are difficult to teach. Although I do not dance anymore, I use what I learned at BAB everyday. The confidence that Jeannine helped me gain has helped me so much through high school, college, and even now as I start my career. I really believe that all those ballet classes have helped make me who I am today. I cannot thank Jeannine enough! Jeannine taught me things about life that no one else has been able to do. Thank you Jeannine! I am sending you all my love and best wishes!Julia Slejko, BAB Student 1990-1996
I started dancing when I was twelve years old. I was a very awkward child, but Jeannine saw something in me. She pushed me hard, gave me parts that were over my head and expected me to work them. She taught me to keep at things and never give up, to be strong on stage & off, and to take corrections and apply them. My love for dance grew into a desire to teach others. Jeannine took the time to train me, and advise me on how to teach children. She taught me how to run a class, how to work with children, and how to make teaching fun. Most of all, I want to thank Jeannine for being such a good friend and always being there when I need her, in dance and in life. I love you Jeannine!
Tiffany Case, BAB Student 1992-present
