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SHINE VALLEY OAKS

With support from Valley Oaks Charter School, KDA will launch our third SHINE: MATH + DANCE = SUCCESS site in Bakersfield in the winter of 2025. 

SHINE at Valley Oaks will serve all students by combining dance with a tailored math curriculum to create an environment for students (6th-8th grade) to explore math in a unique and creative way.

We strive to not only improve mathematical skills, but also empower students to chase after their passions with confidence!

KDA looks forward to graduating our 1st SHINE – Valley Oaks Charter School class in March 2025!

SHINE STUDENT APPLICATION - VALLEY OAKS
SHINE MENTOR APPLICATION - VALLEY OAKS

SHINE DATES + DEADLINES

VALLEY OAKS – SHINE 2025 DATES + DEADLINES:

Student + Mentor Application Deadline: Friday, January 10

Mentor Training Date: Thursday, January 16

Valley Oaks Program runs Thursdays, January 23 – March 27 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

LOCATION:

Valley Oaks Charter School
3501 Chester Ave,
Bakersfield, CA 93301

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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.