Fourth grader Eliza Jones has discovered her rhythm both on and off the stage. The 10-year-old has lived on Isle of Hope for a year and already appreciates how the community “comes together.”

Eliza is part of Step It Up, a cheer and dance program founded by Fef Nolan at Hancock Day School. What began as a fun after-school activity in kindergarten has grown into a passion—and a leadership role. As a leader for the second- and third-grade girls’ team, Eliza helps younger dancers learn routines, stay motivated, and embrace their own creativity.

She recalls her favorite moment fondly: performing at the Hancock talent show two years ago. “It was so fun to get to show everyone what we’d been working on,” she says.

Eliza admires her coach, Mrs. Fef, for her encouragement and creativity, and looks up to Fef’s daughter, Allie, as a model of dedication and grace. Through cheer and dance, Eliza has learned valuable lessons about persistence and teamwork. “You have to put work in to get it right,” she says. “It’s hard to remember all the steps, so you have to keep practicing.”

Balancing schoolwork and dancing comes easily for Eliza, who trains just one afternoon a week. Looking ahead, she hopes to cheer for Hancock next year, continue in high school, and maybe even at the college level.

Her advice for other young athletes? “Try to be yourself when you’re dancing and just have fun!”