PUBLISHED ON January 30, 2025

By: Reese F. & Jessi K.

This past weekend, the Chapellettes and Hi-Steppers competed in the American All-Star State Championship. The American All-Star State Championship is a two-day competition in which teams go head to head in many different divisions. Both teams have worked tirelessly in preparation for this championship and did not disappoint! 

Throughout the weekend, Chapellettes and Hi-Steppers competed in two different divisions, Chapellettes in Division 1 and Hi-Steppers in Division 3. On day one, Chapelletes took to the floor with six solos, three duos, an officer routine, and five ensembles. On day two, Chapellettes competed in the Division 1 Jazz, Open, Gameday, and Kick. On day one, the Hi-Steppers competed with five solos, one duo, and two ensembles. On day two, in Division 3, the Hi-Steppers competed in Jazz, Pom, Open, Gameday, and Novelty.

With all the nerves and excitement going into the weekend, the coaches of both incredible teams were asked what their thoughts and feelings were as we headed into the competition. We also asked what their favorite thing about coaching was, as well as what their favorite dance was. This was Mrs. Woodward, the Hi-Stepper coach's response: 

“The American All Star Louisiana State Dance & Drill Team Championship is always an exciting time of the year. With over 60 junior high and high school teams attending from all across Louisiana, the weekend will be packed with dance, school spirit, creativity and a whole lot more of dance. Dance is a very subjective sport, so you work very hard to create something that you can only hope the judges will enjoy. It can be very difficult to understand when you put out a near flawless routine on the floor, and the results don't go your way. Sometimes the judges just like what the other teams did more than yours or sometimes the scores are so close that 1st place is anyones for the taking. The Chapelle Hi-Steppers practice long hours after school and during the holidays to prepare for this weekend. Many teams only bring 2-3 team dances to state, while we bring five. We are very lucky to have great choreographers: Shelby Jacob '11, Savannah Swain Raynal '14, Jessica Starring '20, Lexi LeBlanc '21, Shayla Woodward '23 and Karley Voges (sister of Kinyson Voges '19). We had great performances at our first competition of the year, so we are hoping to continue that going into state. I believe our girls are in the right mindset this year for greatness. They want to perform each routine to the best of their abilities, they want the judges to enjoy their routines, and they want to bring home the win for Chapelle. I am a firm believer that if you give your everything on the floor and feel that you did everything you can, the results will come. How they feel when they walk off the floor is more important than the trophy. Coaching any type of sport can be difficult, but also has so many rewards. Each year to see the talent God has given these young ladies shine bright on the gym floor is truly a gift. They love Chapelle, dance and each other, and it definitely shows. I also love seeing my Hi-Stepper alumnae who love to retell a story from when they were on the team, and how each one of them still remember our parade stop routine. I have been truly blessed to have been a part of their time at Chapelle, and to be able to witness their talent. To pick a favorite dance from this year is hard because they are so good. Overall I believe our Open "Black & White Swan" dance is our most creative dance and I look forward to seeing what happens at state and nationals with this routine.”

One of the Chapellette coaches, Mrs. Stephani Kammer-Taylor, was asked the same questions and this was her response: 

“Going into state I’m super hopeful for growth. The goal is to place higher than we did last year, and I feel like we are ready to do that. But of course I’m always nervous, but also excited to see if and what we can accomplish in an upward positive direction. My favorite thing about coaching is instilling solid work ethic and a sense of being a good human to your teammates. I think there is more to being on a team than just doing what the team is assembled for, in this case dance. I think it’s about learning how to be a good person and to be a source of support for people that you spend a lot of time with and that you share commonalities with. So teaching girls how to not only be good at their craft, and motivated, and accountable, but also to be good people. My favorite dance is definitely jazz this year. It’s intricate and exciting, and the music is exciting. It’s very technically difficult but the girls are killing it and I think it’s really going to read well when we get to the event.”


The Chapellettes and Hi-Steppers danced beautifully in their performances and won many awards. These awards include:


Chapellettes:

Junior High Solo Title Winner- Sophia Brisset!

High School Junior Solo 2nd Place- Lyla Pelle!

Abby and Lyla Duet- 1st!

Claire and Jessi Duet- 2nd!

Kayden and Hailey Duet- 5th!

Kayden/Hailey/Averey/Aubrey Officer Routine- 3rd!

Kayden/Hailey/Claire/Jessi Ensemble- 1st!

Abby/Aubrey/Lyla Ensemble- 2nd!

Gracelyn/Rowan/Sophia F./Sophia M./Theresa/Ava/Cece/Emily/Brynn Ensemble- 5th!

Sophia B./Julia/Melina/Parker Junior High Ensemble- 4th!

Division 1 Jazz- First Place - 4th in State - Technique and Choreography Awards!

Division 1 Open- First Place - 3rd in State!

Division 1 Kick- First Place!

Division 1 Game Day- Superior!

Division 1: 1st in State! 

Sweepstakes Award- Tie for 4th Place- 4th in State!


Hi-Steppers:

Dakota/Savanna/Skylar/Karissa/Victoria/Makenzie Officer Routine-4th!

Makenzie/Hailey Duet- 4th!

Division 3 Jazz- Second Place- 3rd in State- Choreography and Technique Awards!

Division 3 Open- First Place- 2nd in state!

Division 3 Pom- Second Place- 5th in State!

Division 3 Gameday- Third place!

Division 3 Novelty- First Place- 1st in State!



View more

Recommended Posts

CARE Club Donates Hand-Made Pet Beds to Local Shelters

By Jamie Hanzo • August 20, 2026
CARE Club Creates Pet Beds for Local Shelters and Rescues Members of Archbishop Chapelle High School’s CARE Club, short for Chapelle Animal Rescue Effort, recently put their compassion into action by creating handmade pet beds to donate to local animal shelters and rescues. The students worked together to make comfortable beds for animals waiting for their forever homes. Their efforts supported two local organizations: Metairie Humane Shelter and SPCA New Orleans. This service project gave CARE Club members the opportunity to combine creativity, teamwork, and love for animals in a meaningful way. By making and donating the pet beds, students helped provide comfort and care to shelter animals in need. The SPCA New Orleans team sent a handwritten note thanking the students for their thoughtful donation. Their message served as a beautiful reminder that even simple acts of kindness can make a big difference. We are proud of our CARE Club members for living out Chapelle’s spirit of service and compassion. Their dedication to helping animals and supporting local shelters reflects the caring hearts of our Chipmunks.  Great job, CARE Club!

Rainbow Lab in Mrs. Holmes' Chemistry Class

By Jamie Hanzo • August 20, 2026
Chemistry Students Explore Precision Through Rainbow Lab Students in Mrs. Judy Holmes’ Chemistry class recently participated in a colorful and engaging Rainbow Lab, a classic introductory chemistry activity designed to help students build important foundational lab skills. The Rainbow Lab gives students the opportunity to practice precise measurement, use the metric system, and follow multi-step directions while creating a visible “rainbow” of colors in test tubes. Through this hands-on activity, students learned how accuracy and attention to detail play an important role in successful scientific experiments. During the lab, students used materials such as large test tubes, a test tube rack, beakers, a graduated cylinder, and disposable pipettes. They practiced measuring liquids in milliliters, using a graduated cylinder to carefully transfer chemicals and create their final results. The objectives of the lab included developing skills in measuring chemicals, practicing use of the metric system, testing accuracy, following directions carefully, and reinforcing proper lab safety procedures. Activities like the Rainbow Lab help students gain confidence in the science classroom while making chemistry both visual and memorable. By combining careful measurement with a colorful final product, students were able to see firsthand how precision and procedure come together in the lab.  Great work, Chemistry students!

Avery Duplantier '27 Participates in US Equestrian Interscholastic Athlete Program

By Jamie Hanzo • August 20, 2026
Avery Duplantier ’27 Participates in US Equestrian Interscholastic Athlete Program Archbishop Chapelle High School is proud to recognize Avery Duplantier ’27 for her participation in the US Equestrian Interscholastic Athlete Program, a national program designed to honor the dedication and achievements of young equestrians. The program was developed by US Equestrian to recognize student-athletes who devote significant time to training, practice, and competition in equestrian sport. While not every school offers an equestrian team or club, this program allows students to be recognized for their commitment to their chosen sport and their accomplishments as athletes. To participate, students in grades 5–12 must document at least 100 hours of training or provide verification of participation in three equestrian competitions during the year. After completing the program requirements, participants receive a certificate commemorating their achievements, as well as a varsity letterman patch and/or lapel pin for each year of participation. Equestrian sport requires tremendous discipline, responsibility, and dedication. For many young riders, it is a year-round commitment that involves countless hours of preparation, training, and care. Avery’s participation in this program reflects her hard work and passion for equestrian sport, as well as her commitment to growing as both a student and athlete. US Equestrian is the National Governing Body for Equestrian Sports in the United States and is sanctioned by the United States Olympic Committee. The organization oversees a wide range of equestrian disciplines and competitions across the country, making this recognition especially meaningful for young riders like Avery.  Chapelle is proud to celebrate Avery and her dedication to equestrian sport. Congratulations, Avery! We are excited to see all that you continue to accomplish.

Alumna Spotlight: Taryn Miller Rogers '00 Joins River Region Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

By Jamie Hanzo • August 19, 2026
Alumna Spotlight: Taryn Miller Rogers ’00 Joins River Region Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors  Archbishop Chapelle High School is proud to spotlight Taryn Miller Rogers ’00, who recently joined the Board of Directors for the River Region Chamber of Commerce. Taryn shared that she has been involved with the River Region Chamber since its inception many years ago, making this new leadership role especially meaningful. Her continued commitment to community engagement, economic development, and relationship-building reflects the same values of leadership and service that Chapelle strives to instill in every student. Since September 2022, Taryn has served as Corporate Affairs Manager for Dow St. Charles Operations. In her current role, she oversees geographic communications and all public relations efforts, including local governmental affairs and community engagement. Prior to joining Dow, Taryn spent 18 years with Valero Energy Corporation as Public Affairs Manager. In that role, she oversaw public affairs, community relations, and local government affairs for all of Valero’s Louisiana assets, including two refineries and pipeline operations. She also served as a board member of the company’s political action committee. Throughout her career, Taryn has remained deeply involved in the communities she serves. She has served on several boards and committees, including St. Charles United Way, Southeast Louisiana United Way, St. Charles Economic Development Council, Nunez Community College Foundation, St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation, St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce, The Center for Family and Youth Services, and many others. Since joining Dow, Taryn has also become involved in several Employee Resource Groups, as well as the Dow Ambassador Program. She currently serves as the global communications lead for the Women’s Inclusion Network at Dow, continuing her commitment to empowering others and fostering connection. Reflecting on the foundation she received at Chapelle, Taryn shared: “Archbishop Chapelle High School prepared me for a career in Public Relations by helping me develop strong communication skills, confidence, and a commitment to service. Through strong academics, leadership opportunities, and involvement in school activities, I learned how to connect with people, work collaboratively, and adapt to different situations.” During her time at Chapelle, Taryn was involved in cheerleading, Student Council, Eucharistic Ministry, and other organizations and clubs. She continued: “Chapelle also emphasized professionalism, integrity, and the importance of building relationships—qualities that are essential in Public Relations. The supportive environment encouraged me to find my voice, think critically, and communicate effectively, all of which have been invaluable throughout my career. Most importantly, Chapelle instilled in me the confidence to represent organizations, tell meaningful stories, and engage with diverse audiences in a thoughtful and authentic way.” Taryn’s advice to current students is simple and powerful: “ENGAGE. Get involved, make friends, and be part of your school community — you never know how much of a difference you can make.” We are incredibly proud of Taryn and the many ways she continues to lead, serve, and represent the Chapelle sisterhood in her professional and community life. Congratulations, Taryn!

Students Engage in Summer Reading Book Club

By Jamie Hanzo • August 19, 2026
Chapelle Students Connect Through Summer Reading Program This summer, Archbishop Chapelle High School students participated in a Summer Reading Program designed to spark curiosity, encourage reflection, and inspire a love of reading. Students had the opportunity to choose a book from a curated list of more than 50 titles, each handpicked by Chapelle faculty members. With a wide variety of genres, themes, and stories represented, there was something for every reader, from thought-provoking novels to captivating adventures. Last week, students gathered across campus for small group discussions about their chosen books. Adding an element of excitement, students were paired with surprise faculty members who helped lead conversations and guide reflections. These small group discussions gave students the chance to share their thoughts, hear new perspectives, and connect with one another through literature. Across campus, stories came to life as students and faculty explored characters, themes, questions, and ideas together.  The Summer Reading Program was a wonderful way to begin the school year, reminding students that reading is not only an academic experience, but also an opportunity for connection, conversation, and discovery.

Victoria McCann Named Best High School VB Player in Louisiana

By Jamie Hanzo • August 14, 2026
Victoria McCann Named Best High School Volleyball Player in Louisiana by MaxPreps Archbishop Chapelle High School is proud to celebrate senior Victoria McCann ’27 on being named the Best High School Volleyball Player in the State of Louisiana by MaxPreps heading into the 2026 season. In its national feature, “High school volleyball: Best player in all 50 states heading into the 2026 season,” MaxPreps highlighted top volleyball players from across the country, recognizing one standout athlete from each state. Victoria was selected as Louisiana’s top player, an incredible honor that reflects her talent, dedication, and impact on the court. MaxPreps recognized Victoria, a 6-foot outside hitter, noting that she “heads into 2026 having surpassed the 1,000-kill mark for her career.” This milestone places her among an elite group of high school volleyball players and speaks to her consistency, work ethic, and leadership throughout her Chapelle career. For Victoria and the Archbishop Chapelle High School volleyball program, this recognition is a tremendous achievement. Being chosen as the top player in Louisiana by a national high school sports outlet is a testament not only to Victoria’s individual success, but also to the strength of Chapelle Athletics and the competitive spirit of our student-athletes. Victoria has been a powerful presence for the Chipmunks, leading by example through her athletic ability and commitment to her teammates. As she enters her senior season, she continues to represent Chapelle with excellence both on and off the court. Archbishop Chapelle High School congratulates Victoria on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to cheering her on throughout the 2026 volleyball season.  Source: MaxPreps, “High school volleyball: Best player in all 50 states heading into the 2026 season,” by Aaron Williams, published August 13, 2026.

First School Mass of the Year

By Jamie Hanzo • August 13, 2026
Chapelle Begins the School Year with Mass and Consecration to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Archbishop Chapelle High School began the new school year in the most meaningful way, gathering together as a school community for a beautiful Mass and the consecration of our school to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. As we enter a new year of learning, growth, faith, and sisterhood, this consecration serves as a powerful reminder that the Sacred Heart of Jesus is our refuge and guide. We pray that His love continues to lead us, protect us, and strengthen our community throughout the year ahead. The morning was filled with several special Chapelle traditions. Our new students received their Chapelle pins and Bibles, marking an important step in their journey as Chipmunks. The senior sweaters were also blessed, celebrating the Class of 2027 as they begin their final year at Chapelle. One of the most memorable moments of the Mass came when the Class of 2027 sang their Senior Song, “Let Us Stay Home,” for the very first time. Their voices filled the space with emotion and joy, making the morning even more special for students, faculty, staff, and families. It was a beautiful beginning to the school year and a reminder of the faith, tradition, and love that make Chapelle such a special place to call home.  Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us! Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us! Deus Providebit, God Will Provide!

Big Sis/Lil Sis Reveal

By Jamie Hanzo • August 12, 2026
A Sweet Year Ahead for our Big Sis/Lil Sis Program
More Posts