On March 12, District 45 families and the Frida Community Organization (FCO) wrapped up a four-week Latin Dance Series at Jefferson Middle School. Led by FCO coordinator and dance instructor Alejandro Aguilera, participants learned salsa, bachata, cumbia and merengue fundamentals.
The series promoted cultural appreciation and community bonding, bringing together students, parents and District 45 staff for an engaging experience. With more than 20 years of dancing experience, Aguilera focused on both technique and the joy of dance.
“Latin dance is about having a good time while keeping our culture and traditions alive,” Aguilera said. “Music lives in all of us—we’re all great dancers. I just give a few tips along the way.”
Each week, participants practiced a different Latin dance style, enjoying physical activity while forming new connections. Having learned Latin dance from his grandmother, aunts and uncles, Aguilera was thrilled to see other families bond through dance.
“Watching families unplug, enjoy music and get moving is what drew me to dance—and why I’ll keep doing it,” he said.
Congratulations to all participants for discovering the joy of Latin dance!
