Jarrell Star Power
Jarrell High School Dance and Drill Team Shines Bright at Nationals
In three years, the Jarrell High School Dance and Drill Team grew from six members to 23, sweeping regionals and qualifying for two national competitions.
In just three years, the Jarrell High School Dance and Drill Team has transformed from a six-member startup into a 23-strong performance force—one now setting its sights on the national stage.
Under the direction of coach Bethany Miller, the program began with little more than determination. Until this point, there has not been a private dance studio in Jarrell; every step, turn, and routine these students have mastered has come through Jarrell ISD. “We built this season from the ground up,” Bethany says. “To watch them go from a small-town team to ranking high enough to have the opportunity to compete nationally in a city like Galveston is incredible.”
This season, the team, also known as the Cougar Stars, competed in person for the first time, entering regionals at the highest level—and winning, earning sweepstakes at every regional competition. Those victories qualified them for not one, but two national competitions, where they earned the opportunity to compete April 3–5 in Galveston in multiple styles, including jazz, lyrical, and kick, with both full team and officer routines.
At press time, the team was still working to secure the funding needed to attend nationals, but the milestone itself already marked a defining moment for the program. By qualifying and excelling at regionals, they proved something even bigger: that they belong at that level. “They didn’t even know if this was attainable at the start of the season,” Bethany says. “But they earned it.”
Beyond the trophies, the team has become the heartbeat of Jarrell. They energize pep rallies, perform at the annual Meet the Cougars event, march in the homecoming parade, support other Jarrell High School teams, and serve as ambassadors of school spirit wherever they go. Known for their talent and character, they have also earned sweepstakes honors for dance and maintained an impressive team GPA above 3.8—living out their belief that they are students first, athletes second.
This year, they expanded their impact even further, launching outreach programs with local elementary and junior high schools and hosting showcases that assemble dancers across the district. Whether painting the town blue during playoff season or mentoring younger students, they have become leaders in every sense, becoming the face of Jarrell.
Showing Up for the Team
The Stars have consistently shown up for Jarrell; on the sidelines, in the streets, and on the stage. Now, Jarrell has the chance to show up for them. Competing at this level comes with significant costs, and the team has worked tirelessly to raise funds, even launching a booster club to help support their growing program and future competitive opportunities.
Scan the code to register for the gala and help these Jarrell stars keep shining. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with their journey and relive the moments that made this season unforgettable.
