Kara-Grace Higginbotham Lay was born and raised in Greenwood, SC.  She began taking dance at the age of two.  She has trained in various styles of dance, including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and contemporary under numerous instructors.  She has even gotten to meet some of her favorites including Mia Michaels, Melanie Moore, Mandy Moore, and Miss Puffie from her childhood ballet.  Kara-Grace began dancing competitively at the age of seven. When she was fourteen, she began choreographing and teaching dance to both recreational and competitive students, and has loved it ever since. She was named Miss Greenwood High School in 2011 and now enjoys helping students enhance their stage presence. She has taught dance routines for pageant contestants as well as coached various girls in their onstage questions and interview sessions. She understands the importance of confidence to be successful in any area of life. Kara-Grace graduated with honors from Lander University in 2013 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science. During her time in college, she organized fitness and dance events with Wesley Commons and Wellness Works, where she saw the benefits of exercise in relation to health and gained experience in planning events, leadership and a heart for people of all kinds.  She married her high school sweetheart in October of 2015.  They are enjoying this fun adventure and sharing life together.  Kara-Grace’s goal is to help all students see and reach their full potential.