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KDA and California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) are proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking dance education credential program at CSUB, designed to cultivate the next generation of dance educators in California’s Central Valley.

This new initiative provides aspiring educators with access to a California single-subject teaching credential in dance, addressing a critical need for qualified dance professionals in elementary and high schools. As one of only a few such programs offered in the state, this milestone represents a significant advancement in arts education, enabling passionate individuals to pursue rewarding careers that combine their love for dance with the opportunity to inspire young minds.

The program is particularly timely, supported by California’s Proposition 28, which allocates funding to expand arts education in public schools. This credential will empower participants to secure paid positions in the arts, fostering educational attainment and professional growth for those dedicated to dance.

Enrollment is currently open for the fall 2025 dance credential program. Interested individuals can learn more about the dynamic program by visiting csub.edu/DANCE

EXPLORE THE CSUB DANCE CREDENTIAL PROGRAM
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"As a teacher education department, we are thrilled to be bringing this credential to Kern County. Students who feel a sense of belonging through extra-curricular activities are more successful in school and this is a critical and important way for our students to participate in their school communities. We look forward to seeing this bedrock of culture become a part of our credential program."
Dr alice hays
Dr. Alice Hays
CSUB Teacher Education Department Chair
"We are thrilled to partner with CSUB to bring this vital program to our region. By equipping educators with the tools and credentials they need, we're not only shaping the future of dance education but also ensuring that the arts remain a vibrant part of our community's schools and our overall creative economy."
Andrea hansen 04302023 1
Andrea Hansen
KDA Executive Director
Kda prop28 slider 2024

On November 8, 2022, California voters approved Proposition 28, known as The Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Funding Guarantee and Accountability Act. This legislation mandates the establishment of an ongoing program supporting arts instruction in K–12 schools starting in the 2023–24 academic year.

KDA has been and continues to be at the forefront of championing arts and dance education in Kern County. With the passage of Prop 28, we’ve curated a strategic plan that will uplift the arts in education through research, advocacy, and collaboration. 

~ We are actively engaged in fostering a robust educational landscape by advocating for teacher credentialing in the arts at state universities. 

~ We are initiating conversations with school districts by proactively promoting awareness and understanding of the implications of Prop 28 to ensure that educators and administrators are well-informed about the opportunities it presents for arts and dance education. 

~ We are ensuring that students know their dance training can lead to fulfilling careers. 

As a trusted community messenger, KDA will deliver consistent messaging on Prop 28 to reinforce its significance in enhancing arts education in the region.

Through our advocacy efforts at the legislative level, KDA is not only amplifying the importance of arts and dance education but also contributing to the broader dialogue surrounding educational policy. By actively participating in these initiatives, KDA is playing a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape in Kern County and ensuring that the arts are firmly integrated into the educational fabric for the benefit of students and the community at large.

TAKE THE KDA PROP 28 SURVEY

Are you interested in advancing your arts education career? Prop 28 has presented a unique moment in California’s history where arts education jobs are in high demand. KDA is assisting our education community with filling nearly 15,000 jobs, but in order to get those jobs filled, we need to better understand our community and their education goals.  You are invited to take the KDA Prop 28 Survey – please click the link below!

KDA PROP 28 SURVEY

JOIN OUR MOVEMENT

Join KDA in our efforts to advance arts education in Kern County.  Whether you are just getting started on your educational journey or you are a superintendent of a school district seeking support on arts education implementation, allow KDA to help you along the way!  Our robust dance education team are ready and waiting to give you a hand.  Please email us at info@kerndance.org. 

STUDENTS - Earn a Dance Credential
EDUCATORS - Create a Dance Curriculum
ADMINISTRATORS - Implement a Dance Program

CA DANCE CREDENTIAL

Senate Bill 916 – Theatre and Dance Act (TADA!) – On September 27, 2016 Governor Jerry Brown signed the Theatre and Dance Act (TADA!), Senate Bill 916, authorizing single-subject area certification for the two disciplines (Theatre and Dance) as part of the state’s visual and performing arts programs. 

Today, only a handful of CSU’s offer a Dance Credential program with many more programs expected to open in the near future.  Visit the links below to learn more about current programs. 

DOWNLOAD CA DANCE CREDENTIAL RESOURCES

PROP 28 HOT LINKS

PROP 28 – FAQs

California Dance Education Association – MORE DANCE IN MORE SCHOOLS PROP 28 TIP SHEET

National Dance Education Association. – NATIONAL DANCE STANDARDS 

California State Board of Education – CALIFORNIA ARTS EDUCATION FRAMEWORK, CHAPTER 3: DANCE

Create CA – Prop 28: Arts and Music in Schools Planning Toolkit

Creativity Challenge: The State of Arts Education in California – Full Report

KERN DANCE ALLIANCE
PO Box 12407
Bakersfield, CA 93389
P 661 491 5376
E info@kerndance.org

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Jen Thompson

Vice President | Board Member

Jennifer Thompson is a proud Bakersfield native who fell in love with dance before she even started school. She grew up training under the guidance of renowned local instructor Georgia Peck, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for movement and expression. Jennifer pursed her academic education with equal enthusiasm, earning both her BA and MA in English from National University. For over 20 years, she has worked as an English teacher with the Kern High School District, where ahe has inspired generations of students with her love of literature and language. Recently, she has decided to begin a new chapter-transitioning from teaching English to teaching dance. She is thrilled to channel her passion into helping build and strengthen the fine arts program, where she can continue to inspire students through the transformative power of the arts. In addition to her work in education, Jennifer has proudly served as a board member with Kern Dance Alliance for the past four years. She loves the opportunity to bring dance to her community, spreading joy and encouraging creative expression in people of all ages. Outside of the classroom and studio, Jennifer has raised two grown children who are now pursuing their own passions-a journey that continues to inspire her both personally and professionally. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dogs, diving into a good book, and-of course-continuing to take dance classes herself.

Marcie Hronis

President | Board Member

Marcie Hronis is a distinguished author, dedicated arts advocate, accomplished business proprietor, and renowned interview specialist who resides in the vibrant community of Bakersfield, California.

With a dance career spanning nearly two decades, Marcie honed her craft through rigorous classical ballet training under the esteemed Royal Academy of Dance, achieving the pinnacle of her dance education with a distinction in the Advanced II examination. Marcie’s artistic journey included a passion for modern dance, where her formative training was shaped by the profound influences of Lester Horton and Martha Graham.

As the proprietor of Marcie Hronis Communications, she has garnered accolades and recognition as an award-winning interview coach, serving a diverse clientele across the nation.

Marcie is a published author, having penned the highly acclaimed vegan cookbook titled “Believe it or Not” available worldwide on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Wal-Mart.

Furthermore, Marcie has assumed the esteemed position of President of Kern Dance Alliance, stepping into this role in 2023 following the legacy of Andrea Hansen. Her enduring commitment to the organization is exemplified by her role as a founding board member. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role as one of the co-creators of ADAPTIdance: DANCE + DISABILITY, Kern County’s exclusive adaptive dance program in collaboration with the League of Dreams.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Marcie shares her life with her husband, Demetri, and together, they are parents to two children. Both of their children are engaged in pursuits ranging from classical dance, singing, and piano, to the expressive world of painting.