Sawyer partners with hundreds of educators who are stars in their communities. From inspiring class content to engaging teaching styles, these educators are known for their enriching activities that empower both children and parents alike.

We got the opportunity to chat with Nina Sekhand, Founder of Center for Performing Arts & Dance (CPAD), an NYC-based multidisciplinary space where children explore creativity, movement, and self-expression through dance, theater, music, and more. We learned about inspiring moments, the importance of out-of-school education, and how Sawyer helps them grow.

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! I’d love to hear a bit more about you and why you started your business.

I’m a former professional ballerina and nanotechnology engineer with a profound passion for child development. My journey has always lived at the intersection of discipline and creativity—where science meets movement, and rigor meets imagination. I founded CPAD to reimagine what an arts education can be: A nurturing space where children not only grow as artists, but also as confident, curious, and emotionally intelligent individuals, grounded in both physical expression and cognitive growth.

Can you describe an inspiring moment you’ve had as an educator?  

One of the most inspiring moments was watching a young student, who was once too nervous to speak in class, step confidently into a lead role during our end-of-semester showcase. Seeing her beam with pride on stage—and her parents in tears in the audience—was a powerful reminder of how the right environment can unlock a child’s potential and transform their self-belief. Moments like that stay with me.

What’s the most rewarding thing about teaching children?  

The most rewarding part is seeing that spark when a child discovers something new or realizes they’re capable of more than they thought. Those small moments of growth and pride show me the lasting value of what we’re building together.

What’s one time a child surprised you and made your day? 

An unforgettable instance was when one of our young dancers, recovering from surgery, insisted to her doctor that she couldn’t stay in the hospital any longer because she had ballet class and absolutely couldn’t miss it. Moments like these remind me of the deep connection children form with their training, and the sense of purpose and discipline it instills in them at such a young age.

On a similar note, what’s the funniest thing a child has done in your class? 

After one class, a little girl refused to leave and told me very seriously that she wanted to stay and become my assistant. She even started tidying up the props and correcting her classmates with the most adorable authority. It was both hilarious and heartwarming—and a reminder of how deeply children connect when they feel valued and inspired.

Why is after school/extracurricular enrichment and camp so important for children?  

After-school programs and camps give children a chance to explore, create, and grow outside the traditional classroom setting. At CPAD NYC, we keep our groups intentionally small to ensure every child receives focused attention and personalized guidance. This allows us to nurture each child's unique strengths and help them discover and deepen their passions in a supportive, inspiring environment.

How do you think children can discover their passions when they’re not in school or your programs? 

Passions often emerge when children are given unstructured time to explore, create, and play. Whether it’s building something at home, dancing around the living room, or asking big questions at dinner, those everyday moments are often where discovery truly begins.

What is your favorite Sawyer feature? 

The platform’s intuitive design and seamless integration of scheduling, registration, and communication has significantly optimized our operations. It empowers us to focus on the human side of our work—relationship-building, artistry, and innovation.

What's one trick you learned from another educator that you still practice? 

A fellow educator once taught me the value of starting each class with a moment of quiet: Just one deep breath together to help everyone settle in. That small habit has made a big difference in focus, connection, and the energy of the group.

Have you discovered new customers on the Sawyer Marketplace?  

Absolutely. The Sawyer Marketplace has expanded our reach to thoughtful, like-minded families seeking meaningful enrichment, many of whom have become loyal members of our growing community.

How do you balance your time between running your business (from an operational perspective) and teaching/connecting with parents and students? 

It takes careful planning, clear priorities, and strong teamwork. I try to separate my time between running the business and being fully present with families and students. I’m especially grateful for the amazing team I work with—their support and dedication make everything possible.

How has Sawyer helped your business? 

Sawyer has played a key role in improving how we manage our programs—making communication smoother, enrollment easier, and daily operations more efficient. It’s helped us grow while still keeping our programs personal and connected to each family.