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CSUB and Kern Dance Alliance Launch Innovative Dance Education Credential Program to Empower Future Educators in California's Central Valley

Kern Dance Alliance 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.

“We are thrilled to partner with CSUB to bring this vital program to our region,” said Andrea Hansen, Executive Director of Kern Dance Alliance. “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.”

“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, CSUB Teacher Education Department Chair

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.

For additional details on how Proposition 28 is bolstering this effort, explore kerndance.org/PROP28.

Link: CSUB DANCE CREDENTIAL PRESS KIT

About California State University, Bakersfield
CSUB is Kern County’s premier university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for success in their careers and communities. With a commitment to excellence in education, CSUB serves as a hub for innovation and cultural enrichment in the Central Valley.

About Kern Dance Alliance
Kern Dance Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing dance in Kern County through education, performance, and community engagement. By fostering partnerships and programs like the CSUB single subject dance credential program, KDA works to make dance accessible and impactful for all. 

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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.