Lynwood – Lynwood High School’s intermediate and advanced dance teams celebrated victory at the Sharp International Dance Competition on Feb. 4 at Firebaugh High School, capturing two first-place prizes for their execution of technical skill during high-energy performances.

The school’s intermediate Dance II team, which won first place for its jazz and hip-hop number performed to “Pop, Drop and Roll,” earned the judges’ acclaim for its confidence, use of visuals and music selection. The advanced Dance Ensemble secured first place for its jazz routine, which was praised for its variety and execution of leaps, turns and ripples.

“Visual arts play a significant role in overall academic excellence, allowing students to express themselves in a creative outlet,” LUSD Superintendent Paul Gothold said. “Our District is working hard to provide even more opportunities for lifelong learning through creative expression.”

The Dance Ensemble will advance to the national championship later this year.

The teams competed against three other high schools and were judged on choreography, execution, showmanship and overall performance.

Brittany Washington, in her first year as Lynwood High School’s dance instructor, said she hopes the victory will be the first of many.

Prior to becoming a dance instructor, the Lynwood High alumna danced for the Los Angeles Clippers Spirit Dance Team for eight years and is currently a cheerleader for the Los Angeles Rams. Washington is trained in tap, jazz, hip hop, ballet, pointe, modern and lyrical dance and is passionate about sharing her love for dance with her students.

“I cannot say it enough – I am a proud teacher and thrilled by the results of this competition,” Washington said. “Our dancers have such intense love for dance and are willing to put in the work, which shows in our results. We will continue to aim higher and hope to accomplish even more in the future.”

This was the team’s first competition under Washington’s direction, and the first for many of the dancers.

“I am so proud of Lynwood High School’s dance teams for this tremendous accomplishment,” Board President Alma-Delia Renteria said. “Access to visual art programs often propels students to greater levels of success, whether by sparking a lifelong passion or developing new levels of discipline, and will remain a priority within our District.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS

030617_LUSD_DANCE1: Lynwood High School’s Dance II and Dance Ensemble teams celebrate their first-place wins at the Sharp International Dance Competition at Firebaugh High on Feb. 4. This is the team’s first competition and win under Brittany Washington’s leadership.

030617_LUSD_DANCE2: Lynwood High School’s Dance Ensemble won first place for its jazz routine at the Sharp International Dance Competition at Firebaugh High on Feb. 4. The Ensemble is the school’s most advanced, audition-only dance team.