The Santa Maria-Bonita School District has started its district-wide ballet folklórico program, which is bringing traditional Mexican dance and cultural enrichment to 15 elementary school sites.

This initiative offers students in grades 1-2 and 3-6 an opportunity to learn regional dances, focusing on cultural appreciation, movement, and creative expression.

The program’s first session is wrapping up after a successful run, with students across the district embracing the opportunity to connect with their heritage, the school district said.

By providing meaningful after-school enrichment, the ballet folklórico program supports student engagement, builds self-confidence, and celebrates the culture of the Santa Maria community.

Additional sessions will continue throughout the spring to ensure more students have the chance to participate. Session 2 will run from late February through mid-April at Adam, Alvin, Battles, AES and Oakley elementary schools.

Session 3, the final session of the school year, will take place from late April through May at Taylor, Fairlawn, Jimenez, Liberty and Ontiveros.

Because class sizes are limited to ensure quality instruction, participation is managed on a first-come, first-served basis, the district said. Permission slips will be sent home by site administrators prior to the start of each session.