Highlands Ranch High School

Meet the Highlands Ranch High School Dance Team! We are a high-energy, hardworking group of athletes who leave it all on the dance floor and in the classroom. Whether we’re hyping up the crowd on Friday nights, competing on the local and national stage, or volunteering right here in our neighborhood, we do it all with passion, pride, and a lot of team spirit.: We love supporting our school! From the sidelines to center court at halftime at both football and basketball games. We push our boundaries and test our skills across multiple styles. 

You can catch us bringing the power and precision in Pom, and dropping the beat with synchronization and style in Hip Hop. For us, dance goes beyond the trophy presentation. We are deeply committed to giving back to the community that supports us through local service projects and volunteer work.

Driven by dedication and united by kindness, we strive for excellence in everything we do. Here’s a look at what we’ve built over the last few seasons:

• UDA 2025 – 2nd Place in Hip Hop, 6th Place in Pom
• 2025 Continental League Champions in Hip Hip

Jesse Polewchak – Varsity Dance Coach

jcpolewchak1@dcsdk12.org

Coach P’s Coaching Philosophy…

• Creating strong, healthy dancers who work hard and have fun is a top priority.
• Strong foundational skills in dance technique and overall fitness are essential for performance, injury prevention, and long-term growth.
• Trusting relationships between dancers and coaches are essential to growth and success.
• As a team, everyone is expected to give their best and put it all out on the floor every time we dance.
• Effort, accountability, and consistency matter more than perfection.
• A supportive atmosphere allows dancers to take risks, learn, and grow with confidence.
• Teamwork, respect, and kindness are valued just as highly as technical skill.
• Coaching focuses on the whole dancer- physically, mentally, and emotionally.
• Dancers are encouraged to support one another and celebrate both individual and team achievements.
• Growth is built through challenge, reflection, and resilience.

Mary Kate Naylor – Varsity Dance Assistant Coach

mnaylor1@dcsdk12.org

Coach MK’s Coaching Philosophy…

• Strong foundations first: Physical strength and proper technique are the building blocks of well-rounded, confident dancers.
• Team above self: Dancers are expected to put the needs of the team before their own desires and contribute a culture of trust, accountability, and support.
• Commitment to excellence: I will hold dancers to a high standard both in the dance room and in their actions outside of it.
• Positive environment: I work to create a supportive, encouraging space where dancers feel motivated to grow.
• Joy is essential to success: Dance team should be fun and I will work to help make it both a memorable and rewarding experience for everyone.