For two days this April, nearly 100 LA’s BEST school sites came together at Cal State LA for the 31st Annual Drill Team Showcase. More than just a performance, this event represented a year of practice, commitment, and growth for thousands of students and a return to the full two-day format for the first time since before the pandemic.
In the year leading up to the showcase, students gave up free time after school to rehearse and refine their routines. Behind each team was a dedicated coach trained by LA’s BEST’s City Wide Department to help students develop their skills and perform with pride.
“It’s not just about dancing,” said Christie, a former Dance & Drill Team committee member. “It’s about watching students come out of their shell, supporting one another, and learning that their voice matters even when it’s expressed through movement.”
For many performers, this was their first time on a stage of this size. Nerves ran high in the hallways before go-time. One student from Sunrise Elementary whispered to a teammate, “I feel like my heart is going to fall out.” Seconds later, they burst onto the floor with confidence and power, cheered on by over 1,000 spectators family, friends, and community members who attended free of charge.
Among the many full-circle moments was that of Nahomey, Program Worker at Wilton Place Elementary. Once a Drill Team performer herself, she returned this year as a coach, guiding her team to a first-place finish.
“I remember what it felt like to be out there nervous but proud,” said Nahomey. “Now I get to watch my students feel that same pride. Seeing them win, knowing how hard they worked, it was one of the most meaningful moments of my career.”
This year also marked a milestone for Cristina Barrios, the lead organizer of the showcase. Cristina stepped into the role with a clear vision: grow the event and strengthen relationships with the coaches who bring it to life.
“Last year, we held a one-day event with 62 sites. I set a goal to hit at least 80 schools this year. We reached 95 and that made my heart extremely happy,” said Cristina. “Extending the event to two days was also something I had dreamed about. I wanted to make it bigger and better than the year before.”
Cristina’s leadership focused just as much on connection as it did on logistics.
“I wanted coaches to feel like they could rely on me and that I was someone who would help them feel successful on competition day. That mattered just as much as the number of schools.”
She also shared deep appreciation for the team who made it possible.
“I could not have done this without the City Wide Team. Mike, Manny, Irene, Alex, and Michelle were all incredible. Mike believed in me and supported me every step of the way, through all three years. I can’t wait to see what comes next.”
Drill Team at LA’s BEST gives students a place to push themselves, support each other, and learn what it means to be part of a team. Thanks to the staff, families, and coaches who made this event possible, students walked away with pride and memories that will stay with them for years.