Menifee Union USD Dancer Wins Silver At International Dance Competition Held In Prague

MENIFEE, CA — Hans Christensen Middle School 8th Grader Harlie has achieved a remarkable feat on the global stage, representing the United States at the World Tap Dance Championships in Prague, Czech Republic, according to the district.

"Through relentless preparation and a commitment to her craft, Harlie and her teammates secured a prestigious Silver Medal, solidifying their status among the best dancers in the world," Devina Ortega Castro, spokesperson for the Menifee Union Unified School District, said in a recent news release.

Harlie competed against elite dancers from 21 countries and performed in two major categories: Jr. Formation (Magic), which earned a prestigious 5th-place finish, and Production (Grease), which outperformed dozens of nations to take the Silver Medal, placing Harlie and her team second in the world.

Harlie shared some thoughts about what this means to her.

"This achievement represents the pinnacle of my dance journey so far," said Harlie. "After competing for 10 years, nothing compares to the pride and joy of this moment. Being ranked second in the world is a literal dream come true. It’s the fulfillment of years of dedication, sacrifice, and passion, and it has given me a sense of happiness unlike anything I have ever known."

Harlie’s journey to the podium began at just 18 months old, but her path to Team USA required a new level of intensity. Training with the Southern California Tap Company and Norris Performing Arts Center under Michelle Miner and Sarah Cleveland, Harlie, underwent a rigorous audition process that led to her selection by the United States Dance & Sport Competition Federation (USDSCF).

The road to Prague was paved with discipline.

From July through October, Harlie balanced elite training with her studies at HCMS, maintaining straight A’s while trading vacations for grueling weekend practices.

Harlie's mother, Sasha, spoke on the achievement.

"As a parent, it was both mind-blowing and surreal," said Sasha. "Winning the medal was the icing on the cake, but even more profound was seeing her stand among such amazingly talented teammates, proudly wearing the United States jacket. To witness her doing what she loves, surrounded by some of her closest friends, was the most rewarding and unforgettable experience I could imagine."

The atmosphere in Prague was described as a "miniature Olympics," Sasha said.

Between competing, Harlie participated in the "presentation of nations," trading pins and gifts with dancers from around the world, including meeting peers from Ukraine, highlighting the power of dance as a universal language.

Dr. Jennifer Root, Superintendent of Menifee Union School District, spoke on the dancer and their district.

"Harlie’s achievement is an example of the incredible heights our students can reach when they pair passion with perseverance," said Dr. Jennifer Root, Superintendent of Menifee Union School District. "She has not only represented the United States with excellence but has also served as an inspiration to the entire school community by balancing world-class athletics with academic success."

Board President Kyle Root also shared the board's enthusiasm for her achievement.

"On behalf of the Board of Education, we are incredibly proud of Harlie’s silver-medal performance," he said. "It is remarkable to see one of our own students achieve a world ranking. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to compete at such a high level on the international stage reflect the spirit of excellence we strive for in Menifee."

In addition to her international success, Harlie is a deeply involved student leader at HCMS, serving as a
member of the Associated Student Body (ASB) and the Cheerleading squad. She is also a vital voice in the
Community Engagement Initiative (CEI). As Menifee Union School District moves through Year 2 of its journey
as part of CEI Cohort 5, Harlie has taken a leadership role in helping the district develop better practices for
community engagement.

She recently demonstrated her poise by standing before a room of over a thousand participants to share her personal experience with the initiative, representing the district with the same confidence she displays in international competition.

Harlie’s success at the World Championships marks a defining chapter in her growth as both a world-class athlete and a dedicated student leader, according to Ortega Castro.

"Throughout this journey, she has mastered the art of time management and embraced a resilient growth mindset, proving that perseverance, even in the face of exhaustion, is the key to reaching one’s dreams. The lessons in commitment, teamwork, and pride gained on the world stage continue to shape Harlie’s character and her future aspirations. Her achievement stands as a powerful reminder that with focus and heart, hard work truly knows no borders."