Dance

Introducing the Hitchcock ISD Swingerettes Dance Team

We are thrilled to introduce the revitalized Hitchcock ISD Swingerettes Dance Team! These talented dancers are making a grand comeback, bringing energy and enthusiasm to our school community.

A Rich Tradition:
The Swingerettes Dance Team has a history that dates back to 1972. Over the years, they became an iconic part of Hitchcock ISD's spirit and pride. While the team disbanded in the mid-1990s, recent years have seen the resurgence of student groups proudly adopting the Swingerettes' name. This school year, the district officially resurrected the Swingerettes, celebrating their enduring legacy.

Performance Excellence:
The Swingerettes are not just a dance team; they are a source of entertainment and school spirit. These fabulous dancers grace the sidelines of football and basketball games, elevating the excitement and energy of our sporting events. Their performances have become a cherished tradition, adding an extra layer of enthusiasm to the Hitchcock ISD experience.

Expanding Horizons:
This school year marks an exciting milestone for the Swingerettes as they prepare to present their very first Spring Show. This event promises to showcase their dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent. It's an opportunity for our community to witness the immense growth and creativity of these young dancers.

Academic Excellence:
The Swingerettes are not only dedicated to their craft but also to their education. They have the privilege of a dedicated Dance Period during the school day, allowing them to focus on refining their dance techniques. What's more, they earn a Fine Arts credit for their commitment to this art form, demonstrating the importance of a well-rounded education.

We invite the Hitchcock ISD community to join us in supporting and celebrating the Swingerettes Dance Team. Whether you're cheering them on at games or attending their upcoming Spring Show, your presence means the world to these dedicated dancers.

Stay tuned for more updates and performances from the Swingerettes as they continue to shine brightly in our school district. Their passion, talent, and commitment make them a truly remarkable part of Hitchcock ISD's fine arts tradition.

Honoring the Legacy of the Swingerettes: Then and Now

During Homecoming Week, we were honored to welcome back a special guest—Ms. Linda Kearns, the original director of the Hitchcock High School Swingerettes, founded in the 1972-1973 school year. Ms. Kearns laid the foundation for a program that became known for its dance, discipline, poise, and strong community presence. Her influence extended well into the 1990s, creating a legacy that many former Swingerettes still cherish today.

Meeting Ms. Kearns was a remarkable moment, as I realized how deeply our visions align. We share the same commitment to developing not just skilled dancers but also well-rounded ambassadors for Hitchcock ISD. It was inspiring to learn about some of the original traditions from the "first generation of Swingerettes," which she encouraged me to adapt for today’s "second generation."

Among these cherished traditions:

• Team Flower: The original Swingerettes chose the yellow rose as a symbol of friendship; today, our Swingerettes have adopted the sunflower, representing strength and loyalty.
• Team Song: The first Swingerettes wrote a team song, and I plan to carry on this tradition by having our current team create a new song that reflects their own journey and spirit.
• SLaM (Swingerette Love and Mine): This motto, which Ms. Kearns carried over from her days with the Southwest Texas State Strutters (now the Texas State Strutters), continues to be a guiding principle for our team today.

In a touching moment, Ms. Kearns presented me with a yellow rose and a photo of the inaugural 1972-1973 team, signifying the ongoing bond between past and present Swingerettes. She expressed excitement about the direction of the program and the impact it has had on our students and community. Ms. Kearns was particularly thrilled that dance classes are now available at both Crosby Middle School and Hitchcock High School, expanding opportunities for students to develop their skills and enhance the future of the Swingerettes.

The visit from Ms. Kearns was a reminder of the rich tradition and lasting impact of the Swingerettes on our community. Her dedication to building a strong and dynamic program is something I deeply aspire to continue. To honor her legacy, we introduced the Linda Kearns Award at last year's banquet, a new tradition that recognizes a Swingerette who embodies the spirit, discipline, and love that Ms. Kearns instilled in the team.

As we look ahead, I am proud to lead the Swingerettes forward, keeping the spirit of SLaM alive in every performance, practice, and community event.

#SLaM
Swingerette Love and Mine,
Elise Donnow
Dance/Swingerette Director