Class of 2025 Senior Stories: Davel

Posted Date: 05/10/2025

May 10, 2025 – Like most exceptional athletes and artists, Palo Duro High School Senior Davel Hernandez spends hours a day training. Sometimes, he practices as many as six hours a day. On a typical evening, Davel is dancing from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“Every day I put in so much hard work,” says Davel. Hard work, yes, but Davel also just really loves to dance. “Dance makes me happy. Anytime I have a problem, dance helps me forget.”

That’s what it takes to be part of a national champion dance team and earn a spot in a college dance program. Davel is a member of the two-time National Champion Don Diamond Dancers. In the fall, he will join the spirit program at West Texas A&M University, where he’ll also major in dance. The audition at WT, Davel says, was difficult.

“It was a great challenge for me, but I believe in myself and I’m so proud of what I have accomplished,” he says.

Amarillo ISD’s dance program is the only school dance program in the area. Every year it grows in size and variety, giving students like Davel opportunities to develop their skills and gain exposure among college and professional programs. He’s grateful for every bit of support.

“I love dance so much and I’m so very grateful for my teachers, my teammates, my coach, and everyone who helped me and gave me this opportunity,” says Davel. “Palo Duro feels like home.”