Katy ISD Students Shine Statewide as TDEA All-State Dancers
Katy Independent School District is celebrating a remarkable achievement in the arts as nine of its high school dancers have been named Texas Dance Educators Association (TDEA) All-State Dancers—one of the most distinguished honors in Texas dance education. Selected for their exceptional technique, artistry, leadership, and dedication, these students represent the finest in high school dance statewide.
The following students earned spots on the 2026 TDEA All-State Dance Team:
- Sophie Reuber, Cinco Ranch High School
- Abigail Eugate, Jordan High School
- Erika Ashmore, Katy High School
- Marylynn Rojero, Mayde Creek High School
- Jocelyn Rios, Morton Ranch High School
- Taliyah Dyson, Paetow High School
- Brooke Vorst, Seven Lakes High School
- Amelia Delatorre, Taylor High School
- Emma Parnell, Tompkins High School
“These dancers represent the very best of Katy ISD fine arts,” said Damon Archer, Katy ISD Executive Director of Fine Arts. “Their selection as TDEA All-State Dancers reflects their talent and discipline, but it also speaks to the teachers and programs that nurture their growth. We are proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing where their passion for dance will lead them.”
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A Statewide Stage for Katy Talent
Being named a TDEA All-State Dancer is no small feat. Students are selected from a highly competitive pool across Texas and must demonstrate not only dance technique and performance skills but also a strong commitment to leadership and personal growth within their programs.
The selected dancers will take part in TDEA’s annual convention, where they’ll train with nationally recognized choreographers, network with other top performers, and perform in an elite showcase representing the best of Texas high school dance. This opportunity provides significant exposure and mentorship that often opens doors for future careers in performing arts or education.
About the TDEA and the All-State Experience
Founded in 1979, the Texas Dance Educators Association (TDEA) has been a champion for advancing dance education across Texas. What began as grassroots meetings in homes and diners has grown into one of the most influential fine arts organizations in the state. Today, TDEA supports a professional learning community through events like its annual three-day convention, summer workshops, and year-round resources for dance educators.
The convention, held annually, includes intensive workshops, performances, and leadership training not only for dancers, but also for educators and administrators. The event also highlights updates to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), the Center for Educator Development in Fine Arts (CEDFA), and other legislative advances in arts education.
Each school is allowed to nominate one student for All-State recognition, and the convention experience culminates in a professionally choreographed group performance that draws participation and admiration from across the Texas dance community.
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Local Pride, Statewide Recognition
For Katy ISD, the All-State selections are not just individual accomplishments—they’re a reflection of a strong fine arts culture cultivated districtwide. Dance programs across all Katy ISD high schools provide students with opportunities to develop not only as performers but as leaders, teammates, and ambassadors of the arts.
This latest recognition comes on the heels of several fine arts milestones for the district and reinforces Katy ISD’s commitment to nurturing student growth beyond the classroom.
As these nine students prepare to take the stage alongside peers from around Texas, their community proudly cheers them on—not just for their performances, but for the dedication, discipline, and creativity that brought them here.
For more information about the Texas Dance Educators Association or the TDEA All-State Dance Team, visit tdea.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
