Personality Profile Bio: LAYCEN PERALEZ
Laycen Peralez, a Kilgore native, has come a long way from her early days of dancing as a young girl in her hometown. Her journey through the world of dance, education, and leadership has been marked by passion, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to her craft. Last school year, Laycen returned to where it all began, taking the reins as the director of the Kilgore High School Hi-Steppers, completing a full circle in her remarkable career.
Growing up in the heart of Kilgore, Laycen’s passion for dance ignited at a young age. She honed her skills at Kilgore High School, where she not only danced with distinction but also made her mark as a devoted member of the KHS Hi-Steppers. Throughout her high school journey, Laycen’s commitment and talent shone through, culminating in her role as a Hi-Stepper Lieutenant during her junior and senior years.
Laycen’s pursuit of excellence led her to Texas State University, where she continued to thrive as a dancer and performer on the Texas State Strutters Drill Team. During her four years as a Strutter, she was an integral part of various dance groups, including Jazz Elite Performing Squad and Pom Squad. Her dedication was further showcased as she took on leadership roles, serving as Strutter Sophomore Lieutenant, Junior Captain, and eventually as the Head Captain of the Texas State Strutters during her senior year.
Beyond the campus boundaries, Laycen’s talents took her to stages and parades of international prominence. Her performances with the Strutters at Disneyland Paris, the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Chicago, the 2016 Presidential Inaugural Parade, and the 2016 Texas Black Tie and Boots Gala in Washington, D.C., were a testament to her remarkable capabilities.
Laycen’s academic achievements mirrored her artistic excellence, as she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas State University with a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Dance. Armed with her degree and a wealth of experience, she returned to East Texas and embarked on a journey in dance education.
Her first steps in this new chapter led her to Tyler Legacy High School, where she served as the Assistant Director of the Southern Belles Drill Team for three years. Her passion for choreography and teaching flourished, paving the way for her next adventure at Pine Tree High School in 2020.
Here, Laycen took on the role of Director of the Pine Tree Precision Drill Team, leaving an indelible mark on the program.
Laycen’s commitment to the local dance community extended beyond her teaching roles. She dedicated her time to choreographing and judging for schools across the East Texas area, sharing her expertise and helping nurture the next generation of dancers.
As of August 2023, Laycen’s journey has brought her back to her alma mater, Kilgore High School, where it all began. Taking on the esteemed position of Kilgore High School Hi-Steppers Director, Laycen has come full circle, channeling her passion, experience, and leadership to inspire a new generation of dancers. Her story stands as a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and the profound impact that one individual can have on the world of dance and education.
For Laycen, the dance continues, and the stage is set for a future of limitless possibilities as she guides the Hi-Steppers toward new heights of excellence.
- Written by Hector Peralez
