The year 2013 was the first year Atlantic High School could say it had its very own dance team. A small group of girls is looking to earn their place among all the other activities offered at AHS. The dance team lasted until 2021, when the school was no longer able to fund a sponsor to help create dances for the girls.
Throughout the few years AHS had its dance team, they danced at many basketball games. Showing the crowd the hard work and dedication they had put into dancing. Dancer Grace Barkley thought of a new idea to make the audience not only smile but also bring school spirit to the student body. Asking male students to participate in their 2017 “All I want for Christmas” dance. The boys hid in the student section until it was their time to shine while wearing their Christmas sweaters! This dance was remembered by numerous people in the crowd for many years to follow.
The hard work the girls had put into the dance team was paying off. Spending two or more hours a day practicing their dances, aiming for perfection. Senior Jenna Pelzer said, “People should join the dance team because it’s not just a fun experience, you get a lot of life lessons too. Dancing on stage can give you confidence, which can help you later in life.”
The love the girls had carried into their strong performances. The team danced at Wells Fargo Arena, participating in the ISDTA competition. They raised over 1,000 dollars to cover their admission and costumes for the state dance. Where they placed in the top 10 and other placements through the years they competed. They also went to Abraham High School, where they attended a dance competition for many years. They placed 1st in kick and 2nd in other categories during 2015. In the following years, they brought home many first-place titles.
The joy these girls had from dance was not just from the trophies but from the memories and connections they made. Many girls cherished the friendships they created during their years as dance team members.

Thomas McCune • Jan 7, 2026 at 6:50 pm
Awesome article Faith! I’m. sure there was a lot of research. Good job