San José Unified Introduces Soccer and Folklórico to ELO-P Program
There’s something magical about after-school programs. For many students, it's an opportunity to explore new interests, meet new friends, and develop skills that will stick with them. At San José Unified, we strive to provide students with experiences that nurture their creativity, boost their confidence, and help them become the thinkers, leaders, and creators of tomorrow. That’s why we are beyond excited to introduce two new pilot programs we will offer at the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P): Soccer and Baile Folklórico.
ELO-P is an optional learning program established by the State of California to provide additional learning opportunities outside of the regular school day. The program focuses on developing academic, social, emotional, and physical needs through hands-on, engaging learning experiences for students who meet the eligibility requirements.
This year, we are piloting a free soccer program that is making its debut for 3rd to 5th graders at four elementary schools: Anne Darling, Bachrodt, Empire, and Selma Olinder Elementary, with four additional sites that will join the fun at the end of February. We are collaborating with Catholic Charities, our incredible partners that service four of our sites. They are implementing the America SCORES program, which combines soccer and poetry. Our ultimate goal is to offer these programs at all elementary and middle schools with ELO-P. Every student should have access to enriching activities that encourage growth and connection.
Every Friday, a group of eager young athletes will gather for practices where they’ll hone their soccer skills and tap into their creative side, writing poetry that reflects their experiences on and off the field. Every Tuesday, the excitement builds as the teams compete in games, rotating between participating schools. Beyond the field, something even bigger is happening: students are learning what it truly means to be part of something greater than themselves.
For our students, soccer is about more than just winning. It’s about building resilience, creating lasting friendships, and discovering the joy of working toward a common goal. It’s where they can express themselves, take risks, and grow as athletes and individuals.
In March 2025, Baile Folklórico will debut at two pilot schools, offering students a chance to explore the beauty and history of traditional dance. It’s a celebration of culture and an opportunity for students to express themselves. The Folklórico Program will be open to students of all grade levels, and we’re eager to see how it nurtures self-expression, fosters a sense of belonging, and deepens our students’ appreciation for the diverse cultures that make up our community.
At first glance, soccer and folklórico dance may seem worlds apart. But when you look deeper, they share a common thread: both provide our students with opportunities to grow, connect, and learn in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. They teach teamwork, confidence, creativity, and resilience—qualities that will serve them well in every part of their lives.
“These programs are more than just soccer or dance—they’re about helping kids grow, work together, set goals, and appreciate different cultures. We want every student to have experiences that inspire them and help them thrive,” says Dámaris Cuffy, Senior Program Analyst for Federal & State Programs at San José Unified.
Through soccer, students learn how to work together toward a common goal, build lasting friendships, and develop the resilience to keep going– even when the game isn’t going their way. Through folklórico dance, they gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, build confidence in their self-expression, and experience the joy of movement and music.
These programs are just the beginning. As part of our vision for the future, we plan to expand programs to more schools, ensuring every student has access to these enriching experiences. We want every child in our district to feel empowered, inspired, and connected to something bigger than themselves.
For now, we’re focusing on the joy of these new beginnings—watching as our students lace up their soccer cleats and discover new strengths within themselves. We can’t wait to see how these programs will continue to grow and impact our students’ lives, building a stronger, more connected community. Together, we’re creating a future where our students don’t just succeed academically—they thrive in every part of their lives.
Information about the sign-up process will be shared directly with families of students attending the ELO-Program. Stay tuned for more updates, and prepare for a season of growth, connection, and creativity