Kda web logo
4X9A3765

KDA Opens Applications for SHINE 2026 Summer Program in Bakersfield

Free One-Week Dance + Math Program for Middle School Girls Now Accepting Student and Mentor Applications 

Kern Dance Alliance (KDA) is now accepting applications for both students and mentors for the SHINE: DANCE + MATH = SUCCESS 2026 Summer Program in Bakersfield. The nationally recognized, free one-week program combines formal dance training with rigorous, kinesthetic math instruction to help middle school girls improve their math skills, build confidence, and explore STEAM careers.

SHINE serves girls in grades 6 – 8 and uses a proprietary curriculum aligned with national math standards. Daily sessions include snacks and bonding, hands-on math activities through movement, dance technique and choreography, and small-group tutoring. The week culminates in a celebratory performance featuring original choreography, solo performances, and guest speakers for family, friends, and teachers. Since its launch, SHINE has served nearly 300 girls and mentors with remarkable results: 100% of participating girls improved their math scores and reported greater confidence, while 94% gained stronger interest in STEAM fields.

Program Details – Bakersfield 2026

  • Dates: Monday, July 20 through Friday, July 24, 2026
  • Time: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily
  • Location: Garces Memorial High School Dance Studio, 2800 Loma Linda Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93305

Application Information

Applications for both students and mentors are open now and must be submitted by Friday, July 10, 2026.

  • Students: Open to all Bakersfield-area girls entering grades 6–8 in fall 2026. No dance or math experience is required—just enthusiasm and a desire to grow.
  • Mentors: Open to local high school and college women with strong math backgrounds, tutoring experience, dance training, and a passion for empowering girls. Mentors receive customized online certification and a half-day training session on Thursday, July 16, 2026. All mentors must pass a background check.

The program is completely free for all participants, thanks to generous support from local sponsors and donors. Space is limited to 30 girls and 15 mentors per session. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is encouraged. Girls not selected for the 2026 summer session will be offered spots in future programs.

“SHINE for Girls is the program I wished I could’ve been a part of as a young teen!” said Jessica Reyes, SHINE Lead Mentor. “Through mentorship and tutoring we show girls what it looks like to be a woman in STEM, and how they can get there too! We also use dance as a way to reinforce their math skills and help build the confidence to put themselves out there and SHINE both on stage and in the classroom.”

Bakersfield is the first city in California and on the entire West Coast to host the SHINE program through its partnership with KDA. The 2026 program is proudly supported by Garces Memorial High School.

To apply or learn more, visit kerndance.org/shine/bakersfield/ or contact KDA at info@kerndance.org.

LINK: SHINE PRESS KIT

About KDA

KDA (Kern Dance Alliance) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing dance education, performance, and community outreach throughout Kern County. Through innovative programs like SHINE, KDA empowers people to discover their potential in the arts, academics, and beyond.

Shopping Basket

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.