What a Shooting Near a Dance Studio Means for Your Studio's Safety

Julia Wagner · 2026-09-20

When news broke about an officer-involved shooting near a dance studio in St. Ann, it hit close to home for anyone who runs or teaches at a studio. You probably thought, "Could that happen here?" It's a scary question, but it's one worth asking. Because the truth is, dance studios are community hubs. They're where kids learn confidence, where adults unwind, and where memories are made. But they're also public spaces, and sometimes the outside world spills in. So let's talk about it. Not to scare you, but to help you feel prepared. Whether you're a studio owner, a choreographer, or a dance teacher, you've got people counting on you. And keeping them safe is part of the job—even if it's not in the job description. ### The Reality Check Most days, your biggest concern is a missed cue or a slippery floor. But violent incidents can happen anywhere. According to the FBI, active shooter incidents have occurred in businesses, schools, and other public spaces. While dance studios aren't typically targets, they're not immune. The shooting near that St. Ann studio was an isolated event, but it's a reminder that we can't take safety for granted. What can you do? Start by having a conversation with your staff. Ask yourselves: What's our plan if something happens? Do we know where the exits are? Do we have a way to alert everyone quickly? These aren't fun topics, but they're necessary. ### Simple Steps to Boost Safety You don't need a security team or a big budget. Small changes can make a big difference. - **Know your surroundings.** Get to know neighboring businesses. They can be your eyes and ears. If something looks off, you'll be more likely to notice. - **Control access.** Keep doors locked during class times. Use a buzzer system or a front desk check-in. It's a simple way to know who's in your building. - **Practice lockdown drills.** Just like fire drills, lockdown drills help everyone know what to do. Run through scenarios with your staff and students. Keep it calm and age-appropriate. - **Create a communication plan.** How will you reach parents if there's an emergency? A group text or app can work. Make sure everyone knows the protocol. - **Trust your gut.** If a situation feels wrong, it probably is. Don't hesitate to call the police. It's better to be safe than sorry. > "Safety isn't a one-time thing. It's a habit. The more you practice, the more prepared you'll be." ### The Emotional Side After an incident like the one in St. Ann, it's normal to feel anxious. You might worry about your students, your staff, your own family. That's okay. Acknowledge those feelings. Then channel them into action. Talk to your team. Reassure your dancers. Let them know you're doing everything you can to keep them safe. And remember, you're not alone. Reach out to other studio owners in your area. Share ideas. Support each other. Community is your best defense. ### Moving Forward You can't control everything that happens outside your doors. But you can control what happens inside. By taking a few proactive steps, you'll create a safer, stronger studio. And that's something to be proud of. So take a deep breath. You've got this. And if you ever need a reminder, just look at your dancers. They're counting on you—and you're ready.