Students across Southern California are catching dance fever thanks to a Conga Kids, a unique program that teaches kids communication and collaboration through dances like conga and salsa. 

“Not only do we teach the ballroom dancing, [but] while we're doing that, the kids learn how to collaborate together as a team,” teaching artist Anja Nielsen said.

The program makes dance, much like art or music, a requirement in 52 schools throughout seven districts.

“During the first class they're like, ‘We don't know what this is. This is scary. We have to hold hands, ew,’” she said. “And in the last letter that we get from them, they're like, 'Oh my gosh. This is so much fun.’”

During the semester-long program, students learn five core dances - the fox trot, merengue, salsa, tango, and swing - many of which the kids have only ever watched on TV.

“They get a chance to actually really see and feel what ballroom dancing is all about,” Nielsen said.  

Overall, the mandatory sessions allow students to move to the beat, while laying a foundation of respect and teamwork among classmates.