Beaufort County Schools has talent.

This much was clear as more than 400 of the school system’s students took to the stage for the 24^th annual Steppin’ Out talent show Friday evening. Hailing from the county’s 12 traditional schools, these young people were the stars of the show.

 

 

With acts ranging from band performances and chorus recitals to fluid dancing and rhythmic stepping, the performances were at times high-energy and fun and soulful and thought provoking at other times.

“While providing entertainment and proud moments for family members, friends and participants, it also provides support for the Beaufort County Schools Education Foundation,” BCS Superintendent Don Phipps said.

Proceeds from ticket sales will be used to fund Partner in Education grants through the Education Foundation. These grants allow classroom teachers throughout the school system to apply for funds to implement new and exciting classroom strategies. Education Foundation board member Shannon White spoke to this purpose during the show and also recognized the contributions of Joe Sizemore to the evening’s performance.

“I encourage teachers to apply,” said. “Those grants are judged on things such as creativity, benefit to students, cost effectiveness, critical need and collaboration by committee or with other classes.”

Serving as the master of ceremonies for the evening, Arts of the Pamlico weekend coordinator Crystal Holman helped stoke excitement for the evening’s program. A lover of the arts and a WHS alumna, Holman shared background information on each of the performances.

As the final act closed, all 400 participating students gathered for one grand finale, performing Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” As the director’s choice for the evening, students from Bath Elementary School offered an encore performance from the school’s performance of “Annie KIDS.”