Early Friday mornings at Herrin Elementary are buzzing with a new kind of energy. Long before the school day begins, the gym fills with second through fifth graders stretching, practicing arm motions, and moving in rhythm. This fall marks the launch of the Future Tigerettes Dance Program, and with 85 students signing up in its very first year, it’s clear the program has struck a chord.

The idea came from instructional coach Sierra Anderson, who has a long background in dance. She grew up taking lessons, danced in college at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and later coached Herrin High School’s dance team. Wanting to share that passion with younger students, she started the program as a free enrichment activity on Friday mornings from 7:40 to 8:00. “I wanted to offer something for kids who might not have the chance to take dance lessons outside of school,” Anderson explained. “This way they get to be part of something fun, learn technique, and even participate in the homecoming parade.”

Anderson expected a modest turnout but was stunned when 85 children arrived for the first practice. Quickly, she reached out to colleagues for help managing such a large group. Second-grade teacher Mrs. Thompson, who has a cheer background, joined in to assist, along with Lindsay Fortner and paraprofessional Mrs. Monchino. “They’ve all just come in to help me corral everyone,” Anderson said with a smile. “But honestly, the kids have been great. They come ready to learn.”

The students are preparing for their first big appearance at the Herrin Homecoming Parade. Wearing orange and black T-shirts with “HES Dance” printed on the front, paired with black shorts and colorful hair bows, they’ll walk the parade route performing a simple routine filled with arm movements and coordinated steps. Anderson is also making sure the youngest dancers are supported—there will be a trailer available for tired second graders.

For many of the students, this program is their first taste of organized dance. Fifth grader Amara Stortzum, who studies at Rachel’s Dance School in Mount Vernon, was excited to share her experience with classmates new to dance. “I would love to keep doing this,” she said. “It’s been my dream to dance for a school.” Fifth grader Adalae Frese, who has participated in local dance camps, said she is already thinking about middle school. “I definitely want to do dance team. That’s always been what I’ve wanted.” Jolee Matuszczak, another fifth grader, explained that her sister and cousin both danced on the junior high team, and she would like to continue the family tradition. Others, like Madeline Dawson, are balancing interests. “I might do cheer,” she said, pointing to her years of gymnastics, though she admits she’s tempted by dance as well.

While the parade routine is simple, Anderson is already looking ahead. In the spring, the program will open again specifically for fifth graders preparing to transition into junior high. Those sessions will focus on technique and give students a chance to prepare for future tryouts. The hope is to make the program an annual tradition, building a pipeline from elementary interest to junior high and high school dance teams.

There are also dreams of adding more resources. Anderson and her colleagues are exploring ways to acquire poms through grants or community partnerships. These would be used not only for the Future Tigerettes but also during school celebrations and PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) reward events, where cheerleaders from SIU and Herrin High already volunteer their time to encourage younger students.

For now, though, the focus is on the joy of participation. The students laugh, learn to stay in step with the music, and wave to imaginary crowds as they rehearse parade breaks. They practice moving to a soundtrack of upbeat songs, working on timing and teamwork. Many have been in parades before—on floats or with other groups—but walking together as part of Herrin’s newest program feels different. It feels like they’re part of something being built for the future.

Anderson is already thinking beyond this first season. She hopes to expand the program to include performances at school events or talent shows. “We’re excited that the first year turned out this successful,” she said. “We just want to see how it grows from here.”

As Herrin prepares to cheer them on in the parade, the program has already shown that it has brought new spirit, new opportunity, and new pride to the community.