By Matt Hoover
USD 475 Communications Coordinator
JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - The Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education recently approved the hiring of Lauren Heller as the new Junction City High School J-Stepper Dance Team head coach for the 2026-27 school year.“I am incredibly excited and honored to return to Junction City High School and lead the J-Steppers,” said Heller. “This program means so much to me and I look forward to bringing back the traditions that make the J-Stepper Dance Team so special while continuing to grow and strengthen the team.”
A dedicated and accomplished dancer with deep roots in the Junction City community, Heller, a Junction City High School graduate, brings both experience and passion to the program as she trained for 16 years at Clarabel's Dance Studio in Junction City. While at JCHS, Heller was a four-year member of the J-Steppers and two-time team captain.
Following her time as a Blue Jay, Heller continued her education and dance career at Barton County Community College in Great Bend where she was a member of the Barton CC Cougars Dance Team. In 2025, Heller helped Barton place third overall in the Junior College Division at the 2025 NCA/NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championships in Daytona Beach, Fla. Heller has also served as team captain during her time at Barton, which further demonstrates her leadership and dedication to excellence.Under
Heller’s leadership, the J-Steppers will focus on technical excellence, school spirit and a renewed emphasis on the traditions that have long been a cornerstone of the program. Junction City High School administration expressed enthusiasm for the hire, noting Heller’s strong connection to the school and her proven leadership experience as key assets in guiding the team forward.