Keisha Bussey shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Keisha, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me as an author and dance educator is a balance of creativity, discipline, and connection. I usually start my morning with prayer and a sermon from one of my favorite pastors, grounding myself spiritually before the day begins. Then I look over my calendar for team meetings and think about my next manuscripts—drafting new chapters, revising older pages, or outlining ideas that came to me overnight.
Once my writing session is complete, I shift gears and prepare for my dance classes for the day and the week ahead. My routine is filled with rehearsals, teaching, and guiding students through movement, expression, and technique.
In the evenings, I often return to my notebook or laptop to capture reflections from the day, brainstorm future projects, or read for inspiration. My routine blends the stillness of writing with the vibrant energy of dance, and each day offers a new opportunity to create, dance, teach, and grow.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Greetings,
My name is Keisha D. Bussey, and I am a passionate dance educator, children’s book author, and community advocate with more than 24 years of experience nurturing the whole child through creativity, literacy, and movement. My love for books—instilled by my mother and shaped by influential teachers—has always been at the heart of my journey. Today, I integrate literature into dance education to inspire students to imagine boldly, read joyfully, and move confidently. My personal motto, “Never Miss a Chance to Dance and Read,” reflects my belief in the power of combining artistic expression with academic growth.
As a former Cheerleader Coach at Smith Academy Elementary and the Program Dance Director for Just For Kix, and now as the dance educator for grades 1–5 at Carter Academy Magnet School in Aldine ISD., I’ve had the privilege of mentoring countless young dancers and leaders. I currently serve as Team Lead for the Performing Arts Team and Chair of Student Engagement, helping to create meaningful opportunities for student voice, creativity, and empowerment. In January 2024, I began my yoga journey with the intention of sharing my passion with students and the community. My journey becoming a Breathe For Change Yoga Instructor ~ Mindfulness, SEL (Social Emotional Learning) Facilitator, and Yoga Instructor has truly become a NAMSTE blessing.
I am honored to have been selected as the HAABSE Teacher of the Year for 2025–2026 at Carter Academy Magnet School. Additionally, I serve as Vice President for ATPE Region 4 in Houston, Texas, where I advocate for educators and the arts.
Beyond the classroom, I am the author of the Chance to Dance children’s book series, which encourages young readers to explore the joys of movement, creativity, and perseverance. Through my books, I strive to help children believe in themselves—fostering confidence, imagination, and self-expression. I have also partnered with Voyage Houston Magazine, contributing to uplifting artistic and educational content for families.
My work has been recognized through two special honors:
Keisha’s outstanding contributions to her community and the arts have been formally recognize a recognition proclamation received from former Mayor and Congressman Sylvester Turner.
April 21, 2023 proclaimed Chance to Dance Day by the City of Houston
December 21, 2023 designated Keisha D. Bussey Day, recognizing my commitment to children, dance, and education
These acknowledgments reaffirm my dedication to empowering the next generation of artists, readers, and leaders.
I’m currently expanding the Chance to Dance world with new projects, including Chance to Dance: Yoga and Chance to Dance: ABCs of Dance. I’m also developing an exciting addition—a Keisha doll/Barbie doll to uplift and represent young dancers everywhere.
My story, brand, and mission all center on helping children see their magic, believe in their potential, and move through life with creativity, confidence, and joy.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was a little girl born and raised in Harlingen, Texas—a true Valley Girl with a heart full of rhythm, stories, and imagination. I loved to dance, write, and read long before I ever knew what those passions would grow into. Moving to Louisiana, I blended into the vibrant culture around me, carrying with me the gift of being bilingual and embracing diversity as a core part of who I am.
But the truth is, the world never had to tell me who I had to be. With God by my side, He showed me who I already was—fearfully made, purpose-filled, and guided toward the path meant just for me. At my core, I was, and still am, a girl who finds joy in movement, power in words, and beauty in every story waiting to be told.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
“Little Keisha, your kindness, creativity, and love for dance and reading will all matter one day—more than you can imagine. Keep going.” Sweet girl, don’t worry about fitting into the world. God is guiding every step—walk in confidence, because your gifts will make room for you.”
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I deeply admire Debbie Allen and Lauren Anderson—not just for their achievements, but for the strength of their character. Debbie Allen inspires me with her unwavering commitment to excellence, her passion for elevating the arts, and the way she nurtures the next generation with discipline, heart, and joy. Lauren Anderson’s grace, resilience, and trailblazing spirit have opened doors for so many dancers, especially young women who see themselves reflected in her journey. Both women embody integrity, perseverance, and purpose—qualities that speak far louder than position or power ever could.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. My journey has taught me that praise is a blessing, but it is not my fuel. Growing up as that little girl who loved to dance, write, and read, I didn’t do those things for applause—I did them because they were part of who God created me to be. Along the way, there were seasons where my hard work went unnoticed, where I showed up for others, for my students, and even for my community without expecting anything in return. But I kept going, because my purpose has always been bigger than recognition.
I give my best because God has guided every step of my path—from Harlingen, to Louisiana, to Houston classrooms filled with children who look to me for guidance, movement, and hope. Whether anyone praises me or not, I know that my calling is real, my impact is real, and my heart is in the right place. My excellence comes from my faith, my experiences, and my passion—not from the applause of others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.KeishaDBussey.com
- Instagram: @dancingkeishachancetodance
- Linkedin: CEO & Founder :KDB Chance To Dance Books, LLC
- Twitter: @ChancetodanceB
- Facebook: @Dancekeishachancetodance
Image Credits
Ashli Necole , Tre’scor Cache’ Boutique , Rosa Coleman, Brittany Smith
