Debbie West

Member

Debbie Liberatore West was born and raised in Morgantown, WV. She has two daughters and five grandchildren. Her two daughters were dancers growing up and her two granddaughters are still dancing. Kayla was a student at MDS and currently teaches summer dance at MDS and is a substitute dance teacher there. Gianna is currently a student at MDS and is a student assistant.
Debbie started dance at the age of 3 with Virginia Chittum, Virginia School of Dancing. At Virginia School of Dancing, she studied all genre of dance. At the age of 12, Debbie became a student assistant. At the age of 17, she began teaching her own classes in all phases of dance. She assisted with costumes, and all phases of the recitals.

Debbie is a graduate of Morgantown High School and West Virginia University. She earned a degree in physical education and master degrees in learning disabilities, and behavior disorders. She is a retired seventh grade special needs teacher at South Middle School. At South, she was a cheerleading sponsor and sponsor of The Steppin’ Stallions, a dance group. Debbie was a previous part-time acrobatic instructor for the Mon County Schools.

Debbie is a member of Dance Masters of America – certified by oral and written tests to teach dance. She is an active member of St. Francis de Sales church where she volunteers in several groups. Debbie is the front house manager at the Metropolitan Theatre. She is a past volunteer with the Mon County Fair Little Miss and Little Mister pageants. She has been a judge for Morgantown High’s Mohigan Idol. Debbie was also a judge for the Miss Rainy Day pageant.

Debbie has performed in many recitals and dance productions, and as an adult in MDS’ Nutcracker and Jazz Nutcracker.

Debbie founded the Motown Strutters in 2011. She is the director, choreographer, and performer in the group. The Motown Strutters is a group of ladies over the age of 50 who entertain/perform in Morgantown and the surrounding areas: assisted living facilities, private events, pageants, the CAC, the grand stage of the historical Metropolitan Theatre, etc.

At Morgantown Dance, Debbie was the Foundation’s Coordinator for several years. She previously taught tap and acrobatics to all ages. She currently teaches adult tap classes.