At fish camp, the halls filled with incoming freshmen and Ms. Bonita Denge, Algebra 2 teacher and team sponsor of the Notorious Steppers entered with the team flyers. Students swarmed her looking for information on the new step team.
Ms. Denge will hold leadership position tryouts on August 28 in V303. All candidates must have a 3.0 GPA or higher and a teacher recommendation letter. Ms. Denge works alongside sophomore Amara Shanks to manage the team.
“The qualities were looking for in people that want a leadership role include responsible, ambitious, and helpful,” Shanks said.
Ms. Denge agreed to sponsor the team on August 5 after approached by Shanks. In an email to Shanks, she explained how the team encourages students to take more responsibility in their grades, behavior and attitude in school.
“I definitely see tremendous potential in the team,“ Ms. Denge said. “This is a team that will offer an alternative cultural expression for all the students at Legacy.”
Any female can join the step team, as long as they maintain a GPA over 2.5 and have no prior behavior issues. No experience or strong skill is required to participate on the team. Ms. Denge and Shanks welcome all and encourage everyone to participate. Shanks wanted a chance to have a family-like organization. She plans to organize team bonding events, performances and competitions in order to build a strong team.
“My motivation for starting a step team at Legacy was seeing other Mansfield schools with teams,” Shanks said. ”I thought to myself we started a step team once before why not start one at Legacy and show them what step is all about.”
On August 20, they held an informational meeting for the new members. They covered team rules, expectations and the upcoming tryouts.
“Team members should be dignified and respectful to all,” Ms. Denge said.
Following the introduction meeting, Shanks organized a routine for potential leadership to learn. Their dedication and attitude during tryouts will determine who is selected for each position.
“Stepping is a rising art form that is part of the American culture that unites and brings people together,” Ms.Denge said. “I am proud to sponsor a club that will bring students together to experience this amazing dance and participate in all the great activities that the step team has to offer.”
