Drill/Dance Team

The Palms Elementary Drill/Dance Team began in the late 90s, founded by Mrs. Angela Alston. It is the longest standing extra curricular/enrichment program at Palms. Mrs. Alston volunteers as the director/choreographer of the team and enjoys dancing. She was a part of a Drill Team when she was in school and wanted to provide children with a dance experience. Mrs. Alston is also a teacher at Palms.

The team practices at least twice a week after school and more during competition season. Team dancers learn a variety of dance styles such as: hip hop, jazz, lyrical, military, step, and more. Often the routines have a combination of several dance styles. The team has collaborated with other choreographers on team routines. The Palms Drill/Dance dancers also have the opportunity to dabble in choreography. Mrs. Alston believes that having the dancers take part in choreographing portions of their dance gives them agency in the dance. In addition, when not wearing the team uniforms, members have incorporated their art and positive messages on shirts/hoodies and the like to enhance the meaning of a dance.

Throughout the years, the team has always had a diverse group of dancers in grades 3-5, with various talents, skills, and abilities, that enhance the team’s style each year. During the year, the Palms Drill/Dance Team participates in team building activities. They set individual/team goals and are invited to share their hopes and dreams about dancing on the team. While on the team, leadership skills are developed and members are encouraged to try out for a leadership role on the team. The team also attends dance camp to cultivate their dance skills and bond with each other. Generally, each year, the team’s choreography in one of their dances addresses current social issues. Mrs. Alston has found that through dance, team members can express their feelings/understandings about social issues.

The Palms Elementary Drill/Dance Team is a competitive dance team, that yearly competes locally at venues such as: Magic Mountain, Knott’s Berry Farm, LA County Fair, Universal Studios, and more. Over the years, the team has won many first-third place trophies for their competition performances. The team also performs at Palms Elementary, local public/private schools, and community venues. In addition, on occasion the team invites other students and staff to participate in a school performance such as the “Thriller” dance or a Black History Program performance. The team is supported by friends and family as well as the school and local community through volunteering, fundraisers, donations, and invitations to perform. Yearly, new members are welcomed to the award-winning Palms Elementary Drill/Dance Team.