Youth Spotlight: Lexie Fernandez dances toward her dreams

At just ten years old, Lexie Fernandez is already making waves in Socorro County’s dance and agricultural circles. A fifth grader and homeschooler, Lexie was nominated for this week’s Youth Spotlight by Jenelle Partridge, her dance teacher at Rising Stars Dance Studio, where she’s been a dedicated student for five years.

Lexie’s journey began at age five with ballet, a gentle introduction that quickly blossomed into a passion for movement. Her mother Joni Fernandez, reflects on her dance experience, “We put her in ballet the first year, and after that she just took off and started doing a lot of the other types of dances.”

She’s embraced jazz, tap, hip hop, and folklórico, and this year marks her first solo recital, a milestone that speaks to her growing confidence and experience. Beyond performing, Lexie also helps teach folklórico to younger dancers, a role she’s held for three semesters.

When asked what her favorite part of dance was, Lexie said: “Learning all the new tricks and dance moves,”

She is always working towards expanding her dance skills.

Her mother Joni said the experience has helped Lexie come out of her shell and become a mentor to others.

“She loves helping the little kids, and they love her right back.” Joni said.

Her talents extend far beyond the studio. Lexie is an active member of 4-H, where she shows steers and participates in leatherwork, cooking, sewing and arts and crafts. Her home life is equally lively, with two goats, chickens, ducks, four dogs and a rabbit keeping her busy.

Lexie’s academic interests are just as diverse. She’s especially drawn to science and math and she enjoys tackling hands-on projects and creative pursuits like scrapbooking and painting. Her future plans are ambitious, she hopes to join a competitive dance team in high school, attend veterinary school in California and eventually return to Socorro as a traveling vet.

This weekend, Lexie wrapped up her reign as the 2024 Socorro County Fair Sweetheart, a title that reflects her poise, community spirit and love for the local fair. Whether she’s dancing across a stage during her solo recital or teaching younger kids a folklórico routine, Lexie Fernandez is a shining example of dedication, kindness, and hometown pride.