For 20 years, the Step OUT Dance competition has given students in York Region District School Board the opportunity to grow, perform and express themselves through dance.
What began with a handful of schools now includes about 30 elementary and secondary schools each year. As the competition marks its 20th anniversary, it continues to create opportunities for students to build confidence, develop their skills and connect with others who share a passion for the arts.
“It's really about just bringing kids together, showcasing their amazing talents, and seeing kids being able to show their excellence in different ways,” said Omari White, Founder of the Step OUT Dance Competition and a former YRDSB teacher and administrator.
Throughout the year, student teams choreograph and rehearse their routines in preparation for the event. Over two decades, the competition has also come full circle, with former student participants now returning as coaches and mentors for the next generation of dancers.
Students say they value the welcoming and supportive environments created by their school dance teams and at the competition itself. They also appreciate the opportunity to experience different dance styles and learn from one another.
“I think the best thing about competing in dance is that there's so many talented people, and it’s so amazing to watch,” said Annika, a Grade 7 student at Kettle Lakes P.S.
“This is my first year in dance club, and I think it’s one of the best experiences so far,” said Vincy, Grade 8 student at Beckett Farm P.S. “I think one of my favourite things about dance here is that everyone is just so welcoming, and I feel like I really belong here.”
For co-directors Brendan De Santis and Julian Gullone, both teachers at Mackenzie Glen Public School, the event highlights the importance of the arts in supporting student engagement and well-being.
“I think that the arts are so important,” said De Santis. “As a fellow dancer / competitor myself, someone who went to art school, I just have a really big passion behind it. And I think it's so important to give these students opportunities to showcase art.”
To learn more about this year’s competition, discover who came home with medals and see highlights from the event, watch the video featuring participating schools and their journeys to the stage.