Midway Hills Elementary & Oak Hill Middle Dancers Earn National Finalist Recognition

Special Blog Post by Oak Hill Middle School Dance Teacher Crystal Williams

On Friday, June 26, the Baldwin County Dance Companies traveled to Athens, Georgia, to compete at the OPEN CALL National Dance Competition, where they earned the distinction of becoming National Finalists.

Representing Midway Hills Elementary were:  Kensley Saulsberry, Omni McMillon, and Skylar Driskell, while Oak Hill Middle School was represented by Aubrey Robinson, Jha'kayla Sherman, Normani Baldwin, and Payson Blackshear. The dancers performed their award-winning BRAVO competition routines, earning outstanding overall scores in their respective divisions. The BCDC Academy received 3rd Overall High Score, while the BCDC-OHMS team captured 1st Overall High Score, securing both groups a place in the National Finals.

In addition to the competition, dancers participated in a two-day convention featuring intensive dance classes in Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Musical Theater, and Tap. The classes were taught by some of the dance industry's leading professionals, providing students with invaluable training, inspiration, and mentorship. The weekend concluded with dancers performing in the convention's prestigious Gala Showcase.

This achievement is especially meaningful for Baldwin County School District dancers. Their dedication, growth, and artistry were recognized throughout the weekend, with Aubrey Robinson making a particularly memorable impression by capturing the attention and admiration of one of the competition's most respected judges during convention classes. Moments like these, along with the opportunity to learn from nationally recognized professionals, helped propel our dancers to National Finalist status.

This incredible experience was made possible through the generosity and vision of Allison Hayn Smith, Director of Dance FX in Athens, Georgia, and the OPEN CALL Dance Competition. For more than 20 years, Mrs. Smith has been a trusted friend and colleague whose commitment to dance education continues to impact young artists across the region. OPEN CALL's educational mission is to prepare dancers and educators for a one-of-a-kind journey—whether they aspire to become stronger performers, pursue professional careers, or elevate the programs they represent.

Mrs. Moore and I  continue to be exceedingly grateful for experiences that allow our students to grow as dancers and as young people. We believe in the incredible talent within Baldwin County School District, and we will continue to do everything we can to uplift, inspire, and provide opportunities that help our dancers reach their fullest potential."

Congratulations to these outstanding dancers for representing Baldwin County School District with excellence, professionalism, and pride. Their hard work, passion, and perseverance continue to make our community proud.