IVAN CISNEROS
Mr. Cisneros has served as a professional dancer for Ballet Folklorico Orgullo Mexicano the last 9 years and has taught for Gonzales Dance Academy 8 years. He has obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts and is also a substitute teacher for Tulare County. His passion for teaching kids is to deliver children with the best instruction in the world of Folklorico while highlighting structure, courtesy, respect, and comradery. Mr. Cisneros proudly represents his family from the state of Michoacán, Mexico and assures not only his family but each child a cultural and generational experience.
ELIZABETH SUAREZ
Ms. Suarez has been dancing professionally for Ballet Folklorico Orgullo Mexicano the last 18 years and has taught for Gonzales Dance Academy 2 years. She currently holds a position as a customer service representative for FGS Packing Services in Exeter, California. She is honored to have been given the opportunity to share her Folklorico experience gained by the Maestro John Gonzales. Ms. Suarez is pleased to be representing her family from the state of Michoacán, Mexico and delighted to take part in providing young children the cultural richness Folklorico holds.
LITZI GUTIERREZ
Ms. Gutierrez has served as a Professional Dancer for Ballet Folklorico Orgullo Mexicano the last 9 years and has taught for Gonzales Dance Academy 5 years. Ms. Gutierrez’ education focuses on Early Childhood Development and has received four Associate degrees from Porterville College. Her goal in being a part of this dance family is to bring dancers together by sharing her kindness, compassion, and wisdom. Ms. Gutierrez represents her family from the state of Sinaloa, Mexico.
VALERIE CASTILLO
Ms. Castillo has been dancing since she was three years old and is a product of GDA. This upcoming year will complete 15 years of dancing alongside Mr. Gonzales. She loves to work with kids. Ms. Castillo is great at making connections and teaches her students many valuable life lessons. Ms. Castillo is a powerful voice in the classroom and students have a tremendous respect for her. Aside from her work for Gonzales Dance Academy, Ms. Castillo also works with students at Buckley Elementary School. Ms. Castillo represents her family from the state of Baja California Mexicali, Mexico and Michoacán, Mexico.
ESTEFANIA AYALA
Ms. Ayala has been dancing professionally with Ballet Folklorico Orgullo Mexicano for 9 years and has taught for Gonzales Dance Academy one year. She has always helped where she is needed since she started dancing professionally 9 years ago and this has made a huge impact in the Folklorico community GDA serves. Ms. Ayala holds an Associates Degree in Biology and Physical science and an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts of Mathematics and Science. Folklorico has been a huge part of her life. Folklorico has not only taught her footwork and movement, but has also taught her perseverance, multi-tasking skills, commitment, time management and communication skills. This is something Ms. Ayala looks forward to passing on to future generations through her willingness to teach Folklorico in the classroom. Ms. Ayala represents her family from the state of Michoacán, Mexico.