Jessica Cooper, an instructor at Dance Theatre Fairbanks, has become the first teacher in Alaska certified by the American Ballet Theatre to teach all levels of ballet.

Executive Director Dianne Christiansen said that as a certified teacher Cooper will have access to the latest curriculum updates and be able to make connections with ballet teachers across the country.

"We may live in Fairbanks, but when it comes to dance we are connected to a big wide world, and it shows at DTF," she said in a press release.

Cooper took classes last summer and again this summer to complete the three-part program. 

Sarah Goetz, another teacher at the studio, completed the training to be certified as a teacher for the youngest ballet students. She hopes to complete the training for the other levels soon, the press release said.

Dance Theatre Fairbanks offers a full schedule of classes at the Edna Wise Firehouse Studios, located in what used to be the city police and fire station at Seventh Avenue.

For more go to www.dancetheatrefairbanks.com.