Maestra Monika Angeles

Monika Angeles began her folklórico journey over 20 years ago as a dancer with Aztlán Academy de San José under the direction of Javier H. Salazar. She later joined Grupo Folklórico Luna y Sol at San José State University, directed by Itza Sanchez. For the past 15 years, Maestra Monika has shared her passion for Mexican folklórico dance by teaching in various community and school-based programs throughout the Bay Area. She has contributed her talents to Raíces de México in Palo Alto and has taught both children and adults at Los Lupeños Academy de San José since 2017. She has been invited to teach at the Danzantes Unidos Festival (DUF) for the past several years. To further develop her artistry, Maestra Monika has participated in numerous professional workshops, including DUF, the University Folklórico Summit, and various mariachi festivals. 

In January 2021, she assumed the role of Artistic Director for Grupo Folklórico Luna y Sol (GFLS). Monika earned her undergraduate degree in Child and Adolescent Development with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education from San José State University. She works as an elementary school teacher and completed her Master’s in Teaching and Credential from Santa Clara University in Spring 2023. Maestra Monika is dedicated to educating others about Mexcian culture by emphasizing the importance of artistic expression and cultural representation.“I owe so much to my maestros for all they have taught me. Sharing our beautiful culture with students of all ages brings me joy, and I hope they will also pass down what they have learned to future generations.