Ronan High School cheer squad 'gives back'

As basketball season comes to an end, Ronan High School cheerleading is in full swing. With the help of their coach, Tawna Steele, the Ronan cheerleaders have been giving back to their community in more ways than one.

On Feb. 14, the girls shocased their hard work in front of a small crowd at the St. Luke’s Community Nursing Home. The team danced, cheered, and spoke to the elders. Miss Salish (Leneice Trahan) and Miss Gathering at the Falls (Precious David), two title holders on the squad, each traditionally danced for the audience and showed just a piece of their culture.

“It is an honor to pay back to our community. It was a very special thing for the girls, especially at their age, to connect with the older generation,” explained Steele. The elders showed their enjoyment with applause and hugs afterwards.

The Ronan High School cheerleaders have enjoyed reaching out to the elders to show their gratitude. Cheerleader Allissia North Piegan said, “I think one of the best parts was seeing all the smiles on the people’s faces when we all performed.”

This is just one way the team has reached out but they continue to show their love for their community and school in other ways. The past four years the team has helped two families of four during Christmas season and provided food for Thanksgiving. They have also donated food, blankets, and toys to the local no-kill animal shelters.

“Giving back to your community, that’s one of the biggest things we stand for as a cheer squad. Yes, we love to cheer and support our teams. However, we like to cheer and support our community just as much,” added Steele.

Giving back to the community is one major part of being a cheerleader in Ronan. The team’s motto is “we see you,” acknowledging everyone and their significant role in the world. Whether it is saying hello to someone at school or volunteering their time, the Ronan cheerleaders are making a lasting mark on their town.