ABOUT US
Founded in 2023, we’re a dance organization that celebrates Mexican Indigenous culture.
Ballet Folklórico Xochiquetzal is a vibrant ensemble representing Snohomish County, showcasing the rich tradition of baile folklórico. It was founded with a mission to empower children through the traditions of folkloric dance and with a strong belief in the transformative power of culturally responsive teaching.
With a community focused team of supportive parents, dancers, and Maestra Palacios, our group has been able to provide a number of cultural experiences for our community.
As a community-based organization in Snohomish County,
we prioritize collaboration, mentorship, and belonging.
Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where every dancer feels seen, valued, and empowered to grow. Through our shared commitment to cultural preservation and artistic excellence, we aim to uplift our students and inspire the broader community—one step at a time.
Ballet Folklórico Xochiquetzal is committed to developing a culturally rich and inclusive community where students not only embrace their heritage but also strive for excellence. Rooted in the traditions of Mexican folklórico, our program blends high-quality instruction with cultural pride to nurture the next generation of dancers, educators, and cultural ambassadors.
We believe that culture and literacy are deeply interconnected. By immersing our students in the diverse regional dances, we foster both a strong sense of identity and a deep appreciation for history, storytelling, and the arts. Our program encourages students to engage intellectually and creatively, building confidence, discipline, and a lasting connection to their roots.
To Develop Dancers as Instructors
This committed group brings diverse skills in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and cultural advocacy, working togther to remove barriers for underserved students and create opportunities for personal growth and cultural connection.
Our program helps bridge the equity gap by providing free, high-quality afterschool programming.
Research by the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) shows that afterschool programs play a critical role in promoting social and emotional learning, reducing dropout rates, and improving overall educational outcomes—especially for low-income families who face barriers to accessing extracurricular activities. Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal directly addresses these barriers by offering a no-cost option for local children, allowing them to develop dance, teamwork, and performance skills while connecting with their cultural heritage. In addition to providing immediate benefits to the participants, Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal has the potential for long-term community impact. Afterschool programs, like ours, reduce risky behaviors and provide a positive outlet for students, as highlighted by NCSL research.
By engaging children in a culturally enriching environment, we help foster a stronger sense of identity and community involvement, which is vital for building a healthier, more inclusive South Snohomish County. As our program grows, we aim to serve even more children, offering them a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive both academically and emotionally
Meet the Team
We’d love for you to get to know us a little!
Our dedicated team is volunteer-run by teachers, parents, and community members, with the support of our President, Macuilxochitl Palacios. Together, we work to provide meaningful opportunities for students and families to connect with culture and the arts.
Our board is made up of educators from schools across Snohomish County—including the Edmonds School District and Everett Public Schools—as well as other community leaders who are committed to making arts education accessible and culturally enriching for low-income and immigrant communities.
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Founder · Director · Teacher
Maestra Palacios is an experienced Mexicana-Oaxaqueña with over 20 years in the arts and nearly 13 years as an educator, including the last eight here in Washington State. She has coached teachers, worked across several school districts, and was honored with the Golden Apple Award after graduating at the top of her class from City University.
Her folklórico journey began in California, where she performed at Disneyland, Disney World, and across the U.S., earning numerous medals and trophies. Enriched by her own cultural experiences as a dancer, she understands the powerful connections between culture, identity, and empowerment.
Through Ballet Folklórico Xochiquetzal, she works endlessly toward her vision of an inclusive space where students can celebrate their heritage, embrace their individuality, and build cross-cultural experiences that strengthen both school and community.
Beyond her professional work, Maestra Palacios is a proud mother of two and has been happily married for 20 years. She enjoys family time, dancing, hiking, walking, coloring, and creating art—finding joy and balance in both creativity and togetherness.
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Secretary
I am a 1st grade dual language teacher at College Place Elementary. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, I relocated to Washington four years ago. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Linfield University and am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in ELL education. I am honored to serve on the board of Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal. By participating in Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal, I am able to embody this principle, showcasing the beauty and diversity of our culture.
“This organization fosteres a sense of community and shares our rich cultural heritage with others. As an educator, I believe in the power of representation.”
- Jessica Lopez
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Treasurer
As a first-generation Latinx migrant student, I faced numerous challenges navigating an educational system that often felt out of reach. However, with resilience and determination, and bolstered by a strong cultural foundation, this led me to not only earn a degree but also to become a passionate educator and advocate. Now a teacher, I works tirelessly to create inclusive and supportive environments for students from diverse backgrounds, advocating for equitable access to education and resources. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of representation in the classroom.
“As a first-generation Latinx migrant student, my journey was shaped by resilience and cultural pride. Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal embodies that spirit, fostering community and celebrating our rich heritage.”
- Elvira Perez
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Board Member
I am a current teacher of color at College Place Elementary School. This is the same school I attended as a student and have a lot of pride being a life-long Snohomish County resident. Being back at CPE, now as a teacher, has been eye opening and a huge pleasure to support and work with students to create inclusive, welcoming, and successful environments for them to succeed. I studied at the University of Washington Bothell where I obtained both my bachelor’s in education with an endorsement of ELL and my master’s in Critical Educational Change and Leadership. It is my mission to continue supporting students’ diverse backgrounds and through my work cultivating culturally responsive teaching. It has been a pleasure to be a part of the Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal as a board member. The combined efforts of our board and staff enable us to maintain a no-cost policy for our programming, support volunteer-driven instruction, and broaden our impact in South Snohomish County. Together, they foster an environment where children and young adults gain life skills, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging while celebrating their heritage through dance.
“It is astonishing to be able to see these students both strive with a passion to dance and achieve academic success. Students have continuously shown commitment and success through their hard work.”
- Jessica Gonzalez
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Board Member
I am a 4th grade Dual Language teacher at College Place Elementary. I was born and raised in Snohomish County, and as a proud Mexican-American and first-generation college graduate, my own experiences as a student inspired me to become an educator. I strive to be a role model and advocate for students by offering support, understanding, and representation for those who benefit from having teachers with shared experiences.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Teaching for Inclusive Environments with an endorsement in Special Education. Beyond my work in the classroom, I am honored to serve as a board member for Ballet Xochitquetzal, where I am committed to contributing to the organization’s mission. I hope to make a positive impact on the group, just as it has made such a meaningful impact on me.
- Daniela Dominguez
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Board Member
I am a Multilingual Teacher currently serving Chase Lake and College Place Elementary Schools. My extensive experience includes Dual Language instruction at College Place Elementary and various schools within Highline Public Schools. I hold a Master's in Teaching Non-native English Speakers, as well as endorsements in Reading, English Language Learners (ELL), and Elementary Education. Prior to my work in Washington, I spent two years teaching at a Montessori school in Honduras, following my graduation from Central Washington University. I am committed to supporting the growth and development of culturally enriching programs, exemplified by the incredible Ballet Folklorico Xochiquetzal community.
