EnCompass Drill Team Steps Up Spirit

When it’s time to perform, EnCompass Academy’s “Steppin’ Into Success” After-School Drill Team is all business.

First, the uniform: Each member in a matching embroidered “Drill Team” sweater vest. Next, the lineup: Kids in perfect rows, hands flush at their sides, eyes focused straight ahead.

Then, the performance: Drill Team Instructor Rowena Tatmon (known to students as Ms. Papoose) cues the kids, and in perfect sync they perform their step moves while belting out these words, in a call and response:

“Everywhere we go / People want to know
Who we are / Who we are
So we tell them / So we tell them
We are EnCompass! The mighty, mighty EnCompass!
Deep in my heart / I love EnCompass!”

This impromptu performance was on campus, but Ms. Papoose and her steppers are intent on spreading the EnCompass message all over Oakland. In keeping with a key piece of the school’s motto – “engaged in community” – already this year they have marched and performed in three parades and placed 1st in the Oakland Black Cowboy parade.

Ms. Papoose lives in the neighborhood, and formed a Drill Team in east Oakland to provide a space for youth to develop pride, self-esteem, and self-discipline within the arms of the community. “I’ve been doing this for 20 years, and really enjoy doing what I can do for these kids. It’s a part of me,” she says.

Principal Nguyen was inspired by Ms. Papoose’s many gifts, perseverance, and incredibly positive impact on generations in east Oakland. She wanted to support this community leader in her vision for children and families. Soon after, “Steppin’ Into Success” was born and continues to inspire and motivate students. In keeping with the EnCompass Academy After-School Scholars Program’s commitment to community service, Steppin’ Into Success has brought food and clothing to homeless people at East Oakland’s True Fellowship Church.

“We know we need to be kind to people who need help,” says 3rd-grader Daja.

“Some people don’t get to have stuff,” concurs 4th-grader Ashley, “so we want to help them.”

They also visit the nearby Allen Temple Senior Center, where the team performs and spends time getting to know the seniors. “It feels great because the seniors are older than us and we can perform for them,” reflects 3rd-grader Lilia. “We’re not shy with them.”

Bridging the generations in this way, the kids offer further stepping proof that EnCompass is “engaged in community.” If there was any doubt, the team makes its presence known as they walk to the Senior Center, doing their chants and bringing positive vibrations to the neighborhood.

“We’re learning how to be respectful to everybody, and be good listeners and help each other out,” says 3rd-grader Kimberly. “Thank you, Ms. Papoose!”