For Blas Rodriguez, music and dance are more than just rhythm and movement; they’re powerful tools for storytelling and cultural connection.“You can use this tool to communicate and really inspire people to learn more,” he said.
Born in South Texas, Rodriguez’s curiosity about his heritage extended beyond traditional foods. That curiosity led him to discover folklórico, a vibrant Mexican folk dance that opened the door to a deeper understanding of his roots.
“It uncovered new things—traditions—and that really opened up who I am as a Hispanic,” he said.
That cultural awakening became a lifelong mission to educate and empower youth.
Rodriguez trained in folklórico at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and now serves as a Spanish and music teacher at John F. Peeler Elementary School, where he also coaches an after-school Folklórico dance team.
The program is for students of all ethnicities to learn more about Mexican culture through movement, music, and meaning.
Fourth-grader Celeste M. is now in her second year on the team.
“I like how we dance the steps,” she said. “I like the outfits too.”
For parents, it goes deeper than just seeing their child dancing. Many danced folklorico in their youth and want their child to learn and be proud of their vibrant culture.
“The parents get chills,” Rodriguez said. “They get so happy, they start crying. Their babies are learning something they once did. It feels like they’re reliving their own childhood.”
Scarlet M., a third-grader, also returned for a second year.
“I feel like I’ve gotten a lot better at learning the steps,” she said.
And when it clicks, it clicks.
“I feel joy. I always tell my kids, ‘Do not make me cry. When you start learning, you make me cry,’” Rodriguez said.
Peeler serves a predominantly Hispanic community. For Rodriguez, connecting students from a young age to their history, their culture is a way to motivate them academically.
“When you learn more about your roots, it builds self-confidence,” he said. “And when you start building your self-esteem, you start building your strength in learning.”
Rodriguez sees the discipline learned in dance as a direct bridge to academic success.
“I tell my kids, if you want to be here, you need to do well in academics,” he said. “It’s like a vitamin pill — it energizes them and keeps them motivated to succeed in all areas.”
Peeler will host its Hispanic Heritage Month celebration on Oct. 15, where the folklórico team will take the stage and showcase their hard work, talent, and pride in their culture.
