Wilson Central High School's dance team hoped to get Ellen DeGeneres attention, which worked and prompted the talk-show host to give away $30,000.
The 22-member Wilson Central dance squad was invited to appear on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which was scheduled to air Wednesday after it was taped Tuesday at the school.
DeGeneres told the audience she "loved" the video that featured Wilson Central Assistant Principal Ranesa Shipman dancing with the team at a September pep rally, that the TV host sent a correspondent to the school.
Wilson Central dance team head coach Katie Stricklin spoke with Shipman about participating in the video, planning to post it and getting DeGeneres attention.
And, honestly for us this is about bringing positivity to the school and that's what (DeGeneres is) about and that's what (Shipman) is about."
The exuberant Shipman was highlighted in the segment with DeGeneres. Shipman, who was often in tears during the interview, described herself as a huge "Ellen fan."
Shipman told DeGeneres about how she prepared for the dance and how students motivated her.
"Ranesa, I get the feeling you love your job," DeGeneres said during the interview.
Shipman responded: "Ellen, if I hit the lottery tonight I will come back to school the next day ... I love these kids."
"DeGeneres: "I love you, I think you're amazing."
The team performed and DeGeneres closed the segment with a $15,000 gift to the team for competitions and then presented Shipman with a $15,000 check courtesy of Shutterfly. DeGeneres also invited Shipman to come to the show in person.
The dance Shipman participated in at the pep rally was part of Ciara’s Level Up challenge that invites the artist’s fans to show their best dance moves and share three ways they plan to improve themselves.
The video was also shown by "Good Morning America."
The 22-member team with three coaches planned to watch the segment together at a watch party.
Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com or 615-726-5939 and on Twitter @ AndyHumbles.
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