Juline School of Dance

Juline School of Dance offers dance classes in ballet, jazz, tap, modern dance, African dance, adaptive inclusive dance, and adult dance classes. The program also provides pre-professional ballet training and hosts birthday parties and events in its five studios.

• Ages: 0–18 years old
• Schedule: Class options Monday–Saturday, including daytime and afternoon/evening times

Juline School of Dance began in 1974, founded by the late Juline Frowein Schmitz, and has offered dance in Modesto for over 50 years. The school is home to Juline Regional Youth Ballet (JRYB), a pre-professional ballet company housed at Juline School of Dance. It offers a pre-professional advanced training program for students who wish to pursue a future in dance, as well as inclusive adaptive dance classes for all ages and adult dance classes for ages 18 and up. The studios are available for rental and for birthday parties, and the school holds an annual outdoor recital along with fun dress up days and parent viewing weeks throughout the year. Juline School of Dance offers a free first class.

The leadership team includes Akira Takahashi as JRYB Director, JSD Director, co-director, and owner; Amy Marie Briones as Director, co-director, and owner; Kristina Hansen as Office Manager; and Brienna Wilbers as Bookkeeper. Faculty credentials include professional and educational backgrounds such as Akira Takahashi’s work with Ballet San Jose and Menlowe Ballet, and Amy Marie Briones’ awards at Youth America Grand Prix and the USA International Ballet Competition and her 11-year career as a soloist with Ballet San Jose. Additional staff credentials include training with Dance Masters of America, VAPA certification, teaching credentials, a Master’s degree, and classroom teaching experience across multiple elementary grades. The mission of Juline School of Dance states that its primary goal is to give every child and adult a positive feeling about themselves while offering high-quality training, with a faculty dedicated to building self-confidence and a lasting love for the art of dance in a positive, welcoming environment for all ages and abilities. Juline’s legacy also led to the creation of the Juline Foundation for Children, a nonprofit connected to opportunities in dance for local children, including JRYB. Juline School of Dance was selected as The Best Ballet School in Modesto, California for 2024.

Last updated March 14, 2026.