by Raven Baker

JHS students can now participate in dance class for 2026-27. This class offers an open learning experience for students of all backgrounds. Whether students have been dancing for years or are completely new to it, they will find a welcoming time in this class.

Dance class helps students have a brain break throughout their day and be more physically active. The class is designed to teach fundamental dance styles and build a strong foundation in choreography. Beyond learning routines, dancers also have opportunities to join the color guard.

Senior McKenzie Stubblefield said the opportunity to express herself led to taking the new class. 

“I love the dance class so far this year,” she said. “I decided to join because dance is a good way to express your feelings and it’s fun. So far, we’ve learned a lot of the basics.”

Stubblefield described the class as a creative environment.

 “By the end of the year, I hope to be able to create my own dance and help others who struggle with it,” she said.

Dance instructor Sidney McDonald personally requested the class because she has experience in the subject. She hopes to connect her dancers to color guard and teach the building steps to dance. 

Bringing 17 years of personal experience to the subject, she has a well-rounded outlook on what students need to learn. By the end of the year, she wants her students to be able to give a confident performance and create strong choreography.

McDonald said her dancers will develop and present original dance pieces. This allows students to experiment with their own ideas and build confidence in their abilities, explore movement without the pressure of competition and to learn  more about dance as an art form.