(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – August 23, 2024) — An El Paso ISD elementary school teacher is turning her grief into inspiration, honoring her daughter’s memory by guiding a new generation of dancers.
Maria Blanco, a devoted educator at Park Elementary School for over 40 years, has never let her passion for teaching or dancing diminish. As a former member of the UTEP Dance Team and Diablo Cheerleaders, Ms. Blanco’s love for dancing naturally extended to her daughter, Meagan Blanco, who began dancing at the age of five. Meagan's talent and dedication shined brightly through her middle and high school years at Hanks High School, where she served as a team captain.
Tragically, Meagan was diagnosed with cancer and passed away at the age of 18. In the wake of this devastating loss, Ms. Blanco channeled her grief into creating the M.B. Dance Team with M.B. standing for Meagan Blanco. The team not only keeps Meagan’s spirit alive but also instills leadership and teamwork in young students.
“It was devastating to lose Meagan,” Ms. Blanco said. “She was my shining star, and her passion for dance was infectious. I wanted to create something that would honor her memory.”
The M.B. Dance Team has since become a cornerstone of Park Elementary, offering students a platform to express themselves through dance while learning invaluable life skills. “The kids are amazing,” Ms. Blanco shared. “They bring so much energy and enthusiasm. It’s heartwarming to see them grow not just as dancers but as individuals.”
Beside dancing, the M.B. Dance Team takes part in community service. The team organizes a food drive each year to help Candlelighters with their food pantry.
Park Elementary Principal Carmen Dwyer praised Ms. Blanco’s unwavering dedication and the profound impact of the dance team on the students. “I think it's a great motivation for the students. They look forward to it from kindergarten because they know that once they get to 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade, they can try to be part of the dance team,” Dwyer said. “As a campus, we all look forward to their performances and showcasing their talent. It’s an inspiration for us because it’s our thing.”
