For two years now under the codirection of English teacher Erin Byrd, the pirates have invaded the ballroom. Although Byrd is the woman helping run the show, she is also teaching English IV A and leading one of the school’s biggest programs, Yearbook.
Pirate Invade the Ballroom was directed by Byrd, art teacher and assistant Poms coach Leah Kuhn, Poms head coach Aliana Weatherford and fellow English teacher Anne Carlson this year. PIB Is a dance program that allows for student to combine creativity and teamwork along with school spirt. PIB teaches students a new way to think outside of the way that school wants kids to think. Students learn from the choreography to ensure everyone makes the right moves at the right time. Along with just learning the moves, students also get to express themselves in a way like no other.
Since the beginning of PIB practices this year, students are faced with having to manage time with schoolwork and learning how to dance while still managing to have fun. “Winning and just the practices were fun,” sophomore Addison Landers said. While it may be stressful to balance other activities outside of PIB, the teamwork aspect with the students and the directs help balance it out.
Byrd has been teaching English for 14 years and has been able to build many relationships with students and staff.” It’s not hard to balance the three roles. I just have to be organized and plan ahead,” Byrd said.
Senior Aubrey Maubach said, “She has been beyond wonderful in helping me choose songs and leading Ethan and I through what PIB is and how it works.” Even while directing
the yearbook staff and teaching her English student Byrd has been able to manage the creativity and stress of PIB.
