The Brentwood Christian school Lady Bellas won their third consecutive state title at the TAPPS State Dance Championships on Saturday, Jan. 17, capping off an incredible run of success for a program that began at BCS in 2016.

Competition was stiff this year, with local schools such as Regents in the mix, but they were no match for the Lady Bellas.

“I knew it was going to be close but I strongly felt that the Lady Bellas deserved it,” said director Lisa Warner. “I am so proud of them.”

At the event, senior Emma Kent and sophomore Hollis Leeward were awarded first team all-state, junior Skyla Jimenez was second team all-state, and sophomore Emi Robertson received honorable mention. Kent finishes her career as a three-time state champion and multi-time all-state award winner.

The Bellas practiced hard for months, putting in early mornings and long afternoons, preparing nonstop for the grind. On the stage, they gave it their all. In hopes of going home with another state title, the Lady Bellas’ teamwork and determination showed through.


“Preparation started last summer with Miss Taylor [Warner] and I pouring through music ideas and deciding what dance style would be most competitive and then selecting choreographers,” Lisa Warner said. “The girls learn the dance and then we spend 100+ hours cleaning the dance to make it performance ready.”

When the final results were announced and Brentwood Christian was called as the victor, the Lady Bellas rejoiced, celebrating their win together. Tears and hugs abounded as the group celebrated the fruits of their labor.

Before TAPPS, the Lady Bellas spent much of their time performing at pep rallies, football games, basketball games, and more. Bringing the hype to every event, the squad always aims to demonstrate the school spirit that represents being a Brentwood Bear.

State wasn’t the only victory for the Bellas this year.

The girls also recently competed at the Ascension dance competition in Belton, winning first runner-up overall grand champion against many other public schools. They also received the highest team GPA award, grand champion award in their division, and more, including individual honors for Leeward and junior Peyton Tucker.

Additionally, the middle school Lady Bellas were also overall champions and earned the Apex award at the event.

The three-time state champion Lady Bellas have set a remarkable standard for the program and will soon hang another banner in the Athletic Center to commemorate forever the excellence, grace and dedication that led to the win.

Lady Bellas All-State Honorees:
Senior Emma Kent (1st Team)
Sophomore Hollis Leeward (1st Team)
Junior Skyla Jimenez (2nd Team)
Sophomore Emi Robertson (Honorable Mention)

*This article appeared in the March 2026 issue of The Bear Facts, Brentwood Christian School's quarterly newspaper.