Lansing USD 469 is proud to recognize incoming freshman Katherine (Kate) Jacobson for an impressive list of accomplishments as she continues to pursue her passion for ballet while excelling both on and off the stage.

Kate has spent several years training with the Kansas City Ballet School, where she has performed in numerous professional productions alongside the Kansas City Ballet. Her performance credits include roles in Don Quixote as Cupid, Swan Lake as a maiden, The Nutcracker, Snow White, and other productions that have provided valuable experience on the professional stage.

This summer, Kate attended the Kansas City Ballet School's highly selective five-week Summer Intensive, where she continued to refine her technique. Following the program, she accepted an invitation to join the school's Pre-Professional Program for the 2026-2027 season, an exciting step toward her goal of becoming a professional ballerina.

Kate's talent has also earned her recognition beyond Kansas City. She received a 25% scholarship to attend the University of Missouri-Kansas City's two-week Summer Dance Intensive, which she completed this summer. She was also awarded scholarships to two additional prestigious ballet programs, a 25% scholarship to the Tulsa Ballet School Summer Intensive and a 30% scholarship to the Nashville Ballet School Summer Intensive. After consideration, Kate chose to continue her training with the Kansas City Ballet School this summer.

Adding to these accomplishments, Kate was invited to represent the Kansas City Ballet School in the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), one of the world's most respected international ballet competitions for young dancers.

Outside the dance studio, Kate has also demonstrated excellence in leadership and character. During the 2025-2026 school year, she participated in the Kansas City Junior Cotillion and earned an Honorable Mention in the 2026 National League of Junior Cotillions Essay Contest, recognizing her thoughtful writing and strong character.

Congratulations to Kate on these outstanding accomplishments. Lansing USD 469 wishes her continued success as she pursues her passion for dance and looks forward to seeing all she accomplishes in the years ahead!