Cheerleading

Bringing Cheer to the Bronx.

Building Confidence, Teamwork, and School Spirit.

Two cheerleaders in red and white uniforms performing a cheer routine, with one standing on the other's shoulders, holding a sign that reads 'PANTHERS'

NIDC proudly funds and operates the competitive cheerleading team at PS 89, giving Bronx youth the opportunity to develop athletic skills, discipline, and leadership through a dynamic team sport.

This program not only promotes physical fitness and teamwork, but also builds self-esteem, school pride, and a sense of belonging - all while opening doors to competitive team sports. Through practices, performances, and competitions, students gain experience in collaboration, perseverance, and goal-setting, all critical life skills that extend beyond the team.

Cheerleader in red and white uniform with pom-poms and megaphone on stage during cheerleading performance.
Cheerleaders performing a stunt on a blue indoor cheerleading mat with stage lights and screens in the background.

Meet the Team

  • Robert Rodes

    HEAD COACH

    Head Coach P.S. 89 Varsity, P.S. 89 Junior Varsity, Sunrays Varsity

    As Head coach of a three-team program. I hope to build out the legacy of NIDC cheer. Coming from a participant within the program and now coaching it, my belief in this program to succeed is the most critical aspect of my job. Working with youth athletes every year alongside an amazing team of coaches, I hope to expand and empower the youth and communities around us to become a part of a program that builds character development, leadership skills, confidence, resilience, and to be a part of a team that cares for its members. In the next few years, I hope to build a program that is bigger and better.

  • Windy Rain Khazraishokatkhou

    ASSISTANT COACH

    Sunray Asst. Coach

    Involved within the NIDC cheerleading for over 3 years. In 2017 I started as a flyer on the P.S. 89 team. Having firsthand experience on the mat, coupled with volunteering for two years alongside my second-year coach, Sonia Santiago after my graduation. I now work alongside my other coaches providing our athletes with training from my years on the mat.

  • Jasmine Saldivar 

    ASSISTANT COACH

    P.S. 89 / Sunray Asst. Coach

    NIDC Cheer was just supposed to be a club sport. 5 years later it has become apart my entire life. Becoming a college cheerleader was an exhilarating experience, but also a very nerve wracking one. It gave me new definition to the meaning family. Now being a coach and an active cheerleader, I get to see both perspectives. I admire coaching, and seeing girls grow to love this sport as much as I do. Within my new role as a coach, I will hope to inspire more youth to make cheer not only a sport but a career, achieving sports scholarships, opening doors, and showcasing just how much cheer can change your life.

  • Jaylaine Espinal 

    CAPTAIN

    P.S. 89 Varsity Captain

    As a first-year cheer athlete my passion for the sport continues to grow. As captain of the P.S. 89 2025/2026 cheer season. I will work very hard to prove myself worthy of the title, ensure everyone has a voice and can feel heard.

    In the past year I have experienced countless opportunities such as Cirtus Bowl; Florida and Hershey Park Open National; Pennsylvania. Now in the forefront of leading my team to UCA camp and Disney World Nationals, I hope we will go far as a team and continue the legacy of NIDC cheer.

  • Ishani Ruddock

    CO-CAPTIAN

    P.S. 89 Varsity Captain

    I have been in cheer for a year and a half now! Cheer has held a unique place in my heart since I began and now as a captain of the P.S. 89 cheer season for 2025/2026, I am hoping to give it a place in other people’s heart as well! Each day I think of more ways to work harder to improve any small mistakes in my steps as a cheerleader and to make sure everyone feels supported, loved, and heard.

    In my previous cheer seasons, I have gone to Empire Regionals and Open Nationals in Hershey Park. As a captain now, I fully believe I can get my team to not only UCA camp but to Disney Nationals and even further. I put my trust and very best effort into the hands of my team to make it far.

  • Jaila Nieves

    CAPTAIN

    Title - Sunrays Varsity Captain

    Cheer is a form of expression for me; it adds to my character and is motivational. Cheer has taught me leadership, teamwork and to bring the spirit. Becoming captain to the high school team, I hope to lead with example and always motivate/support my fellow cheerleaders. I'm excited to see where the season takes us as we get ready to build on to NIDC cheer.

  • Jayson Colon

    CAPTAIN

    Sunrays Varsity Co-Captain 

Help bring cheer to the bronx

Cheerleading programs in the Bronx won’t exist without your support. Give challenges, teamwork, opportunity, and pride to youth in the Bronx.