Quick Academic Facts:

• Graduated early from NYU as a University Scholar, Summa Cum Laude, with a 4.0 GPA.

• Hold a B.S. in Teaching World Language: 7-12 Spanish.

• Obtained Initial Teaching Certification for NYS Schools, am fingerprinted/registered with the NYC DOE.

• Fluent Spanish (acquired as non-native second language).

• Trained by NYU expository writing professors in tutoring ENL writers.

• Have completed Masters-level coursework in second language acquisition, literacy education, disability education, human development, Spanish, techniques of translation, and creative writing.

Teaching and Other Relevant Experience:

• One semester student teaching Spanish in an elite NYC public middle school.

• One semester student teaching Spanish in a Title 1 high school in Washington Heights.

• Two years writing tutoring in the NYU Writing Center as a Multilingual Writing Partner and Senior Tutor.

• Worked as a Junior Editor for the 2022-23 edition of the Mercer Street expository essay publication.

• Two years teaching voice and music classes/lessons for A Free Bird.

• Seven years of experience teaching dance classes, private lessons, and choreographing for various places including non-competition dance studios, competition dance studios, community theaters, high school theaters, and for individual artists.

• Currently teaching tap dance at Broadway Dance Center and many other studios, schools, and community programs.

Teaching Resumé Here. Other work experience, sample lesson plans, referrals available upon request.

I believe that teaching is a reciprocal action that requires both the teacher and the student to have a genuine desire to grow with, learn from, and know one another. The teachers who I find most effective and who I strive to emulate are those who are experts at cultivating and multiplying this desire or motivation to learn, who recognize the need for reciprocated respect, and who challenge traditional teaching methods.

As a person who carries many titles (dancer, singer, actor, teacher, writer, editor, tutor, student, musician, artist, etc.), I understand the need to see each individual I teach as a whole person, rather than solely recognizing their identity as a student. I prioritize each individual student’s goals and voice when structuring my lessons and take into account their unique background, needs, and interests in the methods I employ. This is why I love to teach individual, private lessons. I have frequently experienced class environments (both academic and performance) where the teacher’s one-size-fits-most approach is harmful to the students they serve, as they often fail to meet the needs and goals of many individuals, whether it’s the highest-achievers, the neuro-divergent folks, the multilingual students, etc. Much of my teaching style is informed by the principles of Universal Design for Learning, which aims to provide supports and modifications for the student from square one, rather than treating additional supports as an afterthought.

It is my goal to have each student walk away from a lesson with me feeling supported, seen, and equipped with the tools they need to continue to grow, work, and learn independently.

Dance

“If you are looking for a tap class where the tunes are elite, the teaching is clear, there are modifications available at all times, and being taught by a calming sweet talented a** woman, go take her class @bdcnyc!” — L. M. Voice Teacher & BDC Student

“Started this class saying ‘I honestly hate tap’ and ended it exclaiming that I’ve found a new joy. Madison Hilligoss @bdcnyc is such a wonderful and passionate teacher. I really can’t recommend her class enough.” — E.N. (Absolute Beginner Workshop student at Broadway Dance Center NYC)

“Madison helped me grow not just in my dancing skills, but confidence as a performer. She gave amazing advice on how to stand out at class and be a model student. At the end of private lessons, she always went above and beyond by giving me written notes that I could take away from our time together, so I could go back to that day and continue to work on various dance exercises that were helping me improve. We worked on a range of different skills, helping me grow in technique and learn new things. It was truly one of the best experiences I’ve had and would recommend it to everyone!!” — L.L. (private lesson student)

“Madison is so sweet. She cares about you, not just in dance but what you do outside of your dance life. She wants you to succeed and is so willing to help you reach your goals!” — I.M. (private lesson student)

Writing

“Madison’s program offers a chance to look at your writing from a different perspective that will bring you new insights and help you elevate your writing. You will notice a difference after a short time and write more confidently.” —T.L. (tutee in NYU Writing Center)

Voice at A Free Bird

“I wanted to reach out to A Free Bird to tell them thank you so much for the music class. (Student) truly enjoys it and it is helping her cute little voice so much. Madison is amazing and I love how she pushed the kids to come out of their comfort zone.” — Parent of student at A Free Bird

Reach out directly by email (mmhilligoss@gmail.com) to schedule your lessons!

All lessons can be conducted in person (NYC) or virtually (via Zoom).

For in-person tap dance lessons, I typically book space at Ripley-Grier Studios.

For in-person academic sessions (Spanish, Writing, other), we will work together to find the most appropriate location for both of us, but my current favorite meeting spots are quiet cafés, bookstores, or libraries.

The amounts listed below are my standard suggested rates, but I operate on a sliding scale basis—reach out to request a discount, no questions asked!

• 60 minutes ($85)

• 90 minute lesson ($115)

• 2 hour lesson ($150)

Payment: Venmo, Zelle, or Cash. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior will not be refunded.

*In-person tap dance lesson: Student will pay for studio rental in addition to lesson fee.

*If you are a voice teacher, instrumental teacher, or acting coach, reach out about doing a skill trade for a free lesson!