Several years ago a basketball coach in south El Paso recognized the potential to improve the agility and endurance of his players with the intricate footwork of the Mexican folklorico dances. He decided to sponsor a dance club and insist they all join! From these humble beginnings a professional level performing group is emerging. In 1995 Deitra Lied joined the faculty at Bowie High School as the new dance teacher and sponsor. She has made it possible for Bowie High School to be the first in the El Paso Independent School District to offer classes for credit in the art of traditional Mexican Dance. Students may choose to receive credit in either Fine Arts or Physical Education for their efforts. There are students who even participate without receiving credit, because of the education, excitement, satisfaction and pride they share.

The class is an eighth period class, meeting on Monday and Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. on stage in the big gym. Students can continue to participate in other school activities such as athletics and sports, band, and ROTC because of the evening classes. Students suit out, turn in homework and warm up before they begin learning and practicing the dances. Additional assignments incorporate geography, history, and social studies through observations, journal entries, readings assignments, and presentations. Technology is also utilized with spreadsheets and databases for costume inventory, research, measurements and maintenance. Fund raising activities sharpen their social and presentation skills. Students also participate in finding and making costumes, sets, and props. In each class, event or performance the Bowie Folklorico Tenochtitlan continue to expand their Repertoire and hone their dancing techniques as they learn about the culture, people and traditions of Mexico through first hand experience.

 Students are taught the principle professional elements of discipline, responsibility, and presentation as they are provided with diverse performing experiences that will empower and affirm the full development of the child into an adult. As a group students also volunteer for and participate in a variety of community events. They have answered the phones for fund drives at the local PBS station, KCOS, during Hispanic Heritage Month. They donate their time and energy to the Chamizal National Park and Theater located across the street from the school. These dancers serve as positive examples, becoming role models for the community.

 As these students bring the beauty of Mexico to the community they are joining a long line of people in passing along the customs, legends, and stories of the lush country of Mexico. With lively mariachi music, colorful detailed costumes, and rich traditions, these youths are embracing the world with a firm hold on their roots, keeping their culture alive to live each day with them, guiding them through tomorrow.

The Bowie Folklorico Tenochtitlan does not charge for their performances and they love to perform!  If you world like to book a performance or become a sponsor please call

Bowie High School, 915-544-8130, ext. 258.

Please contact Deitra Lied with suggestions, questions or comments at llied@whc.net