Uplifting arts academy
UPCOMING EXPERIENCES & OPPORTUNITIES
From first steps in the studio to real world experiences, these opportunities are designed to help students grow in confidence, creativity, and community.
RESTORED TOGETHER
Art That Brings Families Closer
Join us for a powerful morning designed to bring families and community together through creativity, reflection, and shared experience.
Co-sponsored by the City of Fontana, Restored Together is part of Uplifting Arts Academy’s Voices Rising Neighborhood Series, creating space for connection through art. This immersive gathering invites families to slow down, create side by side, and engage in meaningful moments that strengthen relationships, all while enjoying a light breakfast.Whether you come to create, observe, or simply be present, this experience is designed to meet you where you are and leave you feeling encouraged, connected, and restored.Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Heritage Neighborhood Center, 7350 W Liberty Pkwy, FontanaDrop in and experience art at your own pace throughout the morning
Free Community Event
Family-Friendly • All Are Welcome
Join Us!
WE ARE ONE
Spring Dance Recital
We Are One is Uplifting Arts Academy’s Spring dance recital, celebrating the growth, discipline, and unity of our students.Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Location: Fontana High School Auditorium, 8357 Citrus Avenue, Fontana
Doors Open: 5:30 PM
Show Begins: 6:00 PMFamilies and community members are invited to experience a powerful evening of performance and purpose.Tickets:
General Admission $15
$20 at the door
SUMMER
DANCE CAMP
Dance. Storytelling. Leadership
Uplifting Arts Academy’s Summer Dance Camp offers a dynamic two week experience designed to help students grow in confidence, creativity, and leadership.
Camp Dates: July 20 through July 31, 2026
Location: Uplifting Arts Academy,
14755 Foothill Blvd, Units P and M, FontanaStudents will engage in:
• Dance training across multiple styles
• Storytelling and creative expression
• Leadership development and team building
• A special summer performance will take place at the conclusion of camp.Registration opens June 27, 2026.
Spots are limited. Early registration is encouraged.
NEXT SEASON AT UPLIFTING ARTS ACADEMY
Come Dance with the Uplifters
Build confidence, creativity, and community through the arts at Uplifting Arts Academy. Our upcoming season is designed to support students at every level, from beginners to experienced dancers.
Serving ages 3 through 17, students receive training in ballet, jazz, modern, hip hop, tap, and more, while gaining opportunities to perform, grow, and thrive in a supportive and encouraging environment.Registration Opens: July 19 at 12:00 AM
Classes Begin: August 3, 2026Many families register right at midnight. Spots fill quickly.Tuition starts at $65 per month.
RISE TOGETHER
A Celebration of Youth, Community, and Impact
Rise Together is Uplifting Arts Academy’s signature community event, bringing together families, partners, and supporters to celebrate student growth and invest in the future.
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Location: The Vine, 12489 Foothill Blvd, Rancho Cucamonga
Doors Open: 3:30 PM
Program Begins: 4:00 PMThis experience includes:
• Live youth performances reflecting growth, discipline, and excellence
• A Community Impact Briefing highlighting what’s next
• Recognition of individuals strengthening our community
• Proceeds support Uplifting Arts Academy’s programs and the development of our youth workforce initiatives.Tickets:
Early Access $20 (available through August 15, 2026)
General Admission $25
Reserved tables available
INSPIRE. ELEVATE. COMPETE.
About Uplifting Arts Academy
Where Dance Meets Purpose
Uplifting Arts Academy, founded by Ms. Shaquan Young in 2018, has been empowering children and youth across Southern California through dance, mentorship, and life and career readiness.Headquartered in Fontana and serving San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, Uplifting currently supports youth ages 3 through 17, providing opportunities to grow in confidence, discipline, and creativity while building the skills needed to succeed academically, socially, and beyond.As we continue to grow, Uplifting is expanding its impact through a youth workforce development model currently in progress, extending support for young adults up to age 24 and connecting creativity with real world opportunity and long term success.
OUR MISSION
To provide a safe place where one can nourish their gifts and learn to accept and believe in themselves the way God intended.Jeremiah 29:11 “for I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Reviews and Supporters
Monique Erickson
Uplifting Parent
I cannot say enough good things about Uplifting Arts Academy! From the moment we joined, it was clear that this studio is about so much more than just teaching dance. The instructors are not only incredibly talented, but they also truly care about each student, nurturing their confidence, skill, and faith. The positive encouragement and support they offer are unmatched. My daughter has grown so much, both as a dancer and as a person, and I love how the academy incorporates faith into everything they do. The recitals are always beautiful and well-organized, and it is such a joy to watch the girls worship our Lord through dance. Uplifting Arts Academy is a blessing to our community, and I could not be more grateful for the impact it has had on my childs life!
Chi Town
Uplifting Customer
Uplifting Arts Academy provided entertainment services for my wife’s 60th birthday party. I must say that the service exceeded our expectations. From our initial meeting, we knew that we made the right decision. The owner, Shaquan Young, demonstrated professionalism and a keen ability to understand our requirements and immediately offer a plan to make our event spectacular. The dance performance that Uplifting Arts Academy provided was easily the highlight of the party. I would recommend Uplifting Arts Academy for ANY of your needs related to dance!
musikman2004
Uplifting Parent
Uplifting Arts Academy has been a gift to our family and community. Not only do our daughters dance here, but over the years, we’ve been able to refer other friends and family members to join the studio. It’s heartwarming to see the girls grow and develop a passion for dance and the Lord. Ms. Shaquan and her team are so intentional and invested in pouring into the dancers. It’s more than a dance studio; it’s a safe space where students are encouraged to grow their skills and impact their community. Not to mention the recitals which keep getting better & better every season- wow! We highly recommend Uplifting Arts Academy!
Acquanetta Warren
Fontana Mayor
Uplifting Arts Academy serves as a testament to the positive impact of arts and culture in our community,” said Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren.
Marcelino “Mars” Serna
Fontana Unified School District Board of Education member and Family, Community Programs Engagement Specialist, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools
Programs like Uplifting Arts Academy enrich the lives of our youth and contribute to building a brighter future for Fontana
Justine Esquivel
Uplifting Parent
Uplifting Arts Academy has always gone above and beyond for their students. My daughter loves Miss Shaquan and the routines she learns from her, even at the young age of 3. I have never met a studio before that makes sure everyone who joins feels at home. The kids are well taken care of with love and respect and are worked with to improve their capabilities both through dance and faith. If you are looking for a great dance studio for your son or daughter, make sure to come here—you won’t regret it! Uplifting Arts Academy has always gone above and beyond for their students. My daughter loves Miss Shaquan and the routines she learns from her, even at the young age of 3. I have never met a studio before that makes sure everyone who joins feels at home. The kids are well taken care of with love and respect and are worked with to improve their capabilities both through dance and faith. If you are looking for a great dance studio for your son or daughter, make sure to come here—you won’t regret it!
Brian Oliva
Uplifting Contractor
I have done some media contracting work for Uplifting Arts Academy and was able to see how they treat, teach, and encourage the students from an outside perspective, and I would gladly send my kids there to learn dance and join the community. Professional, high production value, and honest! Give it a try if you are considering enrolling your kids.
Karla Reyes
Uplifting Parent
An amazing dance studio that truly nurtures faith, creativity, and talent. My kids have grown so much here, and the supportive atmosphere is unmatched. Ms. Shaquan, the director of the studio, has been my daughters' teacher for almost 10 years and I have no complaints. She is an excellent teacher and an excellent human being. Miss Crystal is one of the other teachers and my daughters also love her. I have been able to see my girls growth over the years and not only in dance but also in their self-esteem .They have found in this place not only a space for the art of dance but also a family where they have found their best friends If you looking for a place where your kids will feel safe and respected, this is the right place. Highly recommended!
Kellee Smith
Uplifting Parent
If I could give this company 10 stars, I would! Such an uplifting, encouraging, and inspirational example the instructors of the company are to the young ladies of Uplifting Arts Academy. The golden heart of the director is unmatched, and she cares about the mental, physical, spiritual and emotional health. I LOVE LOVE LOVE all of the recitals I have had the privilege to attend, and you can feel the positive energy from all of the dancers and instructors, and those in attendance as well. The company has grown tremendously with young ladies but the full attentiveness of each instructor to each child has not changed; each child is loved individually and collectively. This dance company is the best you will ever find!!
Join Us in Creating a Brighter Future
Uplifting Arts Academy is more than a dance academy. We are a family, committed to helping children grow through the arts, mentorship, and real world opportunities that prepare them for success in and out of the classroom.Through a connected pathway of programs, we support young people as they build confidence, develop skills, and grow into leaders, creators, and professionals.By partnering with us, you become part of a shared mission to strengthen Inland Empire families and expand opportunity for the next generation.
Family & Youth Stability
Wraparound Support for Families
Uplifting Arts Academy understands that young people thrive when creativity is supported by stability, care, and community.Family & Youth Stability extends our work beyond the studio by supporting families and young people—including children in foster care and young adults—experiencing housing instability, so they can remain engaged in the arts, education, and workforce pathways that help them grow and succeed.
Through coordinated partnerships and wraparound support, Uplifting strengthens families while keeping young people connected to mentorship, creativity, and opportunity.
OUR PROGRAMS
From first steps in the studio to real world readiness, our programs are designed to support every stage of a young person’s journey.
Youth Workforce Development Model
Building the Next Generation of Leaders, Creators, and Professionals
Uplifting Arts Academy is developing a youth workforce development model that transforms creativity into career readiness. Through mentorship, skill building, and real world experience, students and young adults gain the tools to lead, work, and thrive.Rooted in our emerging 8 Steps Forward Workforce Model, this pipeline equips young people with leadership, communication, and professional skills while guiding them toward opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, and the workforce.Through hands on learning and community partnerships, including pathways connected to Grace and Grub Coffee Cafe, our social enterprise, Uplifting empowers young people as creators and storytellers while building confidence and the skills needed for real world success.We are building a bridge between potential and opportunity, strengthening families and the communities they call home.
The ‘I Can’ Program:
Empowering Dancers for a Brighter Future
This program supports dancers transitioning from middle school to high school and from high school to college. Through mentorship, career readiness workshops, emotional support, and scholarships, the 'I Can' Program aims to empower dancers academically and personally.
Dance Recitals & Theatrical Stage Plays
Uplifting Arts Academy curates theatrical stage plays and dance recitals, showcasing the talent of Inland Empire students while nurturing their personal growth and confidence. These performances are key milestones in our students’ artistic journeys.
Summer Camp & Intensive Programs
Our summer camp and intensive programs are designed to provide students with focused dance training, mentorship, and the opportunity to develop skills that will benefit them both in the arts and academically.
Annual Mental Health Awareness & Youth Empowerment Summit
A collaboration with the City of Fontana, other Fontana-based dance schools and youth-focused organizations, summits focus on mental health awareness, youth empowerment, and community support. Featuring panels, breakout sessions, and performances, Serving as a platform for young people to gain confidence and connect with community leaders.
Community Outreach & Partnerships
Uplifting Arts Academy engages with local community organizations, schools, and businesses to ensure that all children have access to the benefits of dance and mentorship. We host free community events, workshops, and collaborate with local organizations to keep children active and positively influenced.
LEARN HOW YOU CAN MAKE OUR FUTURE BRIGHTER
ATTENTION PARENTS & DANCERS
2026 REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Process for registration:1. Register your child/children on our parent portal by clicking the registration button below. (please ignore the enroll in classes button on the registration page; this will be a new feature coming soon).
2. Click on the "make a payment" button located below. Make payment for your registration fee. Registration is $45 per student for each term (twice a year). Please make sure your child’s name is on the registration.
3. Email the studio email address with the classes you would like your child to sign up for on/after July 19, 2026
4. Once you receive a confirmation email that your child has a spot in the class, you can go online to make your payment. Payments are due by the 5th of each month throughout the season.
5. If payment is not received by the 5th of each month, your child may lose their spot in their class.
MAKE A PAYMENT FOR REGISTRATION AND CLASS FEES
2026 Winter/Spring Class Fees:
(Current Season)1 Class week: $55/month
2 Classes a week: $105/month
3 Classes a week: $150/month
4 Classes a week: $195/month
5+ Classes a week: $240/month10% Sibling discount$45 term registration fee
How your sponsorship makes an impact
Supporting the Future of Youth: Your sponsorship will directly impact students, helping them access transformative experiences in dance and mentorship.Scholarships: Funds raised will help provide scholarships to students who may not otherwise afford tuition, ensuring that all children have access to the benefits of dance and educational support.Mental Health & Empowerment: Your donation helps fund the Mental Health Awareness & Youth Empowerment Summit, providing youth with the tools and resources to navigate their personal challenges with resilience.Community Building: Through events, outreach programs, and performances, we foster a sense of community that empowers children to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
LEARN MORE ABOUT UPLIFTING ARTS ACADEMY
Fontana Showed Up!
Uplifting Arts Academy at the Jazz Festival
It's A Blessing
The Star Christmas Recital Recap
Uplifting Arts Academy + Kiwanis Club of fontana
Mental Health & Wellness Fair
Voices Rising Special Remarks
INSPIRE. ELEVATE. COMPETE.
Voices Rising 2025 Recap
Voices Rising
Walk in Confidence, not cockiness
What is Voices Rising?
HONORING MS. VICTORIA
KNOTTS SHARP COMPETITION 2025
CHRISTMAS RECITAL 2024
"MIRACLES ON CITRUS AVE"
RECAP VIDEO
Beyond Church & Uplifting Arts Academy:
Dancing in the City Outreach
Mayor Monday
UPLIFTING ARTS ACADEMY IN THE SPOTLIGHT
City of Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren sits down with the incredible team from Uplifting Arts Academy, a family-friendly dance studio focused on uplifting Fontana's community and students through dance.
SPRING RECITAL "REWIND" 2024 RECAP
UPLIFTING TEAM – OVERCOMER
WINTER RECITAL RECAP
UPLIFTING ARTS ACADEMY
2026 SCHEDULE
Next Season Begins August 3, 2026Registration opens July 19 at 12:00 AM.Families are encouraged to register early, as many classes fill quickly.Our current Winter/Spring schedule is available below. Updated class offerings and next season details will continue to be announced.Tuition starts at $65 per month.
Sibling discount applies.
Contact us for private lessons!
REGISTRATION FOR FALL/WINTER 2026 BEGINS ON
JULY 19TH, 2026
SPRING DANCE RECITAL - JUNE 27th 2026
UPLIFTING ARTS ACADEMY
ELEVATE CLASSROOM
| Day | Time | Class | Age | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MONDAY | 4 – 5pm | Beginning Hip Hop | 6+ | Miss Shaquan |
| MONDAY | 5 – 6pm | Technique (SLT/Lyrical) | 6+ | Miss Shaquan |
| MONDAY | 6 – 7pm | Intermediate Lyrical ✝︎ | 10+ | Miss Shaquan |
| MONDAY | 7 – 8pm | Intermediate Stretch, Leaps, Turns ✝︎ | 10+ | Miss Destiny |
| TUESDAY | 4 – 5pm | Hip Hop 1 | 6+ | Miss Shaquan |
| TUESDAY | 5 – 6pm | Jazz 1 | 9+ | Miss Shaquan |
| TUESDAY | 6 – 7pm | Modern | 10+ | Miss Shaquan |
| TUESDAY | 7 – 8pm | Intermediate Hip Hop ✝︎ | 9+ | Miss Shaquan |
| WEDNESDAY | 4 – 5pm | TBD | - | - |
| WEDNESDAY | 5 – 6pm | Ballet/Jazz | 6+ | Miss Victoria |
| WEDNESDAY | 6 – 7pm | Ballet/Jazz | 6+ | Miss Victoria |
| WEDNESDAY | 7 – 8pm | Jazz 2 ✝︎ | 9+ | Miss Destiny |
| THURSDAY | 4 – 5pm | Tap 2 ✝︎ | 9+ | Miss Shaquan |
| THURSDAY | 5 – 6pm | Competition Ω | - | Miss Shaquan |
| THURSDAY | 6 – 7pm | Team Inspire Ω | - | Miss Shaquan |
| THURSDAY | 7 – 8:15pm | Team Elevate Ω | - | Miss Shaquan |
| FRIDAY | 4 – 5pm | Pre Ballet/Tap (Potty Trained) | 3-5 | Miss Shaquan |
| FRIDAY | 5 – 6pm | Ballet 1 | 9+ | Miss Shaquan |
| FRIDAY | 6 – 7pm | Jazz 1 | 7+ | Miss Shaquan |
| FRIDAY | 7 – 8pm | Tap 1 | 6+ | Miss Shaquan |
UPLIFTING ARTS ACADEMY
INSPIRE CLASSROOM
| Day | Time | Class | Age | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WEDNESDAY | 4 – 5pm | Pre-Ballet/Jazz (Potty Trained) | 3-5 | Miss Shaquan |
| WEDNESDAY | 5 – 6pm | Beginning Tumbling | 5+ | Miss. Shaquan |
| WEDNESDAY | 6 – 6:45pm | Ballet 2 ✝︎ | 9+ | Miss Shaquan |
| WEDNESDAY | 7 – 8pm | Private Lessons (Upon Request) | - | Miss Shaquan |
| THURSDAY | 4 – 5pm | Tap 2 ✝︎ | 9+ | Miss Shaquan |
✝︎ Approval Required
Ω Competition and Teams subject to try outs at start of season
***Conditioning will ONLY be the last Saturday of each month and a requirement for team.
All others can register separately.
connect with us
UPLIFTING ARTS ACADEMY
14755 Foothill Blvd, Unit P
Fontana, CA 92335Customer Service • 909-307-4339E-Mail • upliftingartsacademy@gmail.com
The Star
A Christmas Recital
December 20, 2025 at 5:30PM
An Unforgettable Night
of Movement, Music, and Light
Celebrate the joy of Christmas with an evening that uplifts hearts and unites families. Witness the timeless story of The Star come alive through the artistry of Uplifting Arts Academy students.
SCAN FOR PROGRAM DETAILS:
📅 Event Details:
Saturday, December 20, 2025 | Doors Open: 5:30pm | Showtime: 6:00pm
Fontana High School Auditorium
9453 Citrus Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335
🎟 Tickets
• Advance: $15 (Oct. 15 – Dec. 19)
• Day of Event: $20
Tickets available above.👉 Open seating — arrive early to secure ample seating for your family and guests.
🚗Parking
Free parking is available directly in front of the auditorium and in lots north and south of the school.
Accessible parking spaces are available directly in front of the venue.
Please arrive early to allow time for parking and walking to the auditorium.
ℹ️Additional Information
• Children ages 2 and under may attend free.
• All ticket sales are final, but tickets may be transferred to another guest.
• Drinks and refreshments will be available before, during, and after the show from Grace & Grub Coffee Bar — with 100% of proceeds benefiting Uplifting Arts Academy’s 8 Steps Forward initiative.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to reserve a seat?
No. Seating is open and first-come, first-served.
What time should I arrive?
Doors open at 5:30 PM. Show starts at 6:00 PM and doors close once it begins.
Is parking free?
Yes. Parking is free in front of the venue, with additional free lots north and south of campus.
Is accessible parking available?
Yes. Accessible spaces are located directly in front of Fontana High School.
Are tickets refundable?
All ticket sales are final, but you may transfer your ticket to someone else.
Can I bring young children?
Yes! Children ages 2 and under may attend free if seated on a parent’s lap.
Will food or drinks be available?
Yes. Drinks and refreshments will be available before, during, and after the show from Grace & Grub Coffee Bar.
Where can I purchase my ticket?
Once released, tickets may be purchased at www.upliftingartsacademy.com or via the provided ticket link.
How can I make a year-end, tax-deductible donation to support Uplifting Arts Academy?
We welcome year-end gifts that directly benefit our students and families. All contributions are tax-deductible and help sustain programs like 8 Steps Forward and future community initiatives.
Donations can be made securely online at www.upliftingartsacademy.com or via our Zeffy donation link. A receipt for your records will be provided.
I Can
Voices Rising:
A Free Youth Mental Health & Arts Summit
Presented by:
Uplifting Arts Academy • City of Fontana • Beyond
99.1 KGGI • iHeartMedia • Grace & Grub Coffee Bar
A Day of Healing,
Expression, & GRowth
On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the community gathered at the Jessie Turner Center for the first-ever Voices Rising: Youth Mental Health & Arts Summit — a free day of dance, dialogue, and discovery.
More than a summit, Voices Rising became a safe and joyful space where youth ages 9–18, their siblings, and parents could strengthen confidence, celebrate uniqueness, and build practical skills for resilience and leadership.
👉 Watch the Summit Overview Video:
Highlights From the Summit:
• Youth-led Opening Session with dance and artistic performances
• Creative Breakout Sessions on mental health, songwriting, storytelling, and parenting
• Main Panel: Rising Strong, a youth–adult dialogue on resilience
• Community Lounge with DJ, podcast booth, and Happier Camper affirmation wall
👉 Watch the Post-Event Recap Video:
What to expect at voices rising
The “I Can” Experience
At the heart of Voices Rising was the I Can Experience — a powerful reminder that every young person is capable, resilient, and filled with purpose.
🟣 I Can Stage spotlighted youth voices through performance and personal storytelling.
🟣 I Can Affirmation Wall, in partnership with Happier Camper, captured the hopes, strengths, and commitments of participants.
This reflects our 8 Steps Forward initiative: helping youth grow in leadership while strengthening families.
👉 Watch an exclusive talk from Voices Rising 2025:
Beyond the Summit: The Neighborhood Series
The summit was just the beginning. Throughout the year, Uplifting Arts Academy continues this work through the Voices Rising Neighborhood Series — free local gatherings in schools, community centers, and neighborhoods.
These events create smaller, more personal spaces where families can:
• Explore mental health and wellness tools
• Engage in creative activities like dance, music, and storytelling
• Build stronger connections between youth, parents, and community leaders
• Continue the conversations and skills sparked at the summit
“This summit reflects what we believe at Uplifting: every child carries strength, resilience, and purpose inside them. Our role is to make space for their voices to rise, their character to grow, and their hearts to heal.”
— Shaquan Young, CEO & Artistic Director
Why It Matters
Together, the summit and neighborhood series are building an ecosystem of care — uplifting youth voices, nurturing resilience, and creating lasting family and community impact.
Stay Connected
Be part of the journey. Stay connected year-round for updates on upcoming neighborhood series events, volunteer opportunities, and the next Voices Rising Summit.
Where Growth Takes Center Stage
SUMMER CAMP
2025
Event Overview:
July 21–25, 2025
Ages 6–17
Final Performance: July 26, 2025
At Uplifting Arts Academy, summer isn’t a break—it’s a launchpad. Our high-energy Summer Camp blends fun, creativity, and skill-building to keep dancers inspired, confident, and connected. With exciting classes, team bonding, and an end of week performance , this is where lasting memories are made—and where dancers get a head start on a successful year ahead.
What to Expect
• Daily dance intensives led by inspiring instructors
• Team-building, creative workshops, and leadership activities.
• Opportunities to build technique, friendships, and confidence
• A thrilling finale performance at Quakes Stadium to celebrate campers’ growth
Why Join?
Whether your child is new to dance or leveling up for the next season, Summer Camp prepares them to succeed on stage and beyond. It’s more than a week of fun—it’s the beginning of their next breakthrough.
Spots Are Limited:
Secure your dancer’s spot and make this summer unforgettable.
Now Hiring Part-Time Dance Instructors
Uplifting Arts Academy is expanding to meet the growing demand for youth dance and leadership programs.
We are building a roster of talented, passionate instructors to join our team.
If you love working with children and want to make a difference through dance, we invite you to apply today.
Applications will first go through an initial screening process, followed by review from a hiring committee made up of select students and Uplifting community members.
