Incoming freshman in NORTHSIDE ISD can be in many varsity level activities in both sports and fine arts.  These kids are allowed to try out for competitive teams and groups on campus and receive placements based on recommendations from their middle school coaches and directors. 

There is one glaring exception.  Incoming freshman may not try out for varsity or junior varsity dance or cheer teams.  This appears to be the only exception in both the athletic and fine arts departments across the entire district.

This is not a UIL rule.  It is a district policy and it is time for a change.  Many kids in our district have significant out of school studio and gym experience.  Some could compete on a varsity stage as freshman.  In fact, the requirement of spending a full year in pep squad in order to tryout for Varsity has influenced some students’ to not participate in their school cheer and dance programs at all.

Forcing these skilled and talented kids to be held behind and receive one less year of varsity experience, often makes them less competitive in the collegiate world of dance and cheer.  It is time that they be allowed to compete for a spot.

If you agree, please make your voice heard.  Let NORTHSIDE know that we don’t want our kids’ talent, experience, and hard work to be ignored.  They deserve a shot to try for a place on a varsity team, like every other kid with talent and drive are afforded.