MAS 6th Grader, Mariana Sisneros, Qualifies for Dance Nationals: Here’s How to Help Her Get There

Mariana Sisneros, a 6th-grade student at MAS Charter School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, recently qualified with her dance team for a national dance competition in Las Vegas, Nevada. A multi-sport student-athlete and proud member of the Class of 2031, Mariana trains with Albuquerque-based Dancing Stars, balances basketball and cross-country at MAS, and still finds time for dance practice after school. 

After qualifying for the Fly Dance Nationals in June 2026, monthly fundraisers are planned to help cover Mariana’s travel and competition costs, including a popcorn sale that’s running now through Sat., Nov. 15, 2025. Get to know Mariana in her own words below, including how to support her current and upcoming fundraisers.

MAS: How long have you been dancing, and what do you like best about it?

MARIANA: I’ve been dancing since March 2024. What I love most about dancing is that it lets me express myself and showcase my talents and skills. I also really enjoy being part of the Dancing Stars dance family. They make dancing even more fun. My favorite type of dance is hip-hop, and I enjoy jazz and tumbling where I can learn new tricks and so much more.

MAS: Tell us about Dancing Stars Dance Studio and your team.

MARIANA: Dancing Stars has about 50 dancers and five instructors. It’s a fun and supportive place to learn and grow.

MAS: We understand that you’ve already competed at one national dance competition. What was that like?

MARIANA: In summer 2025, I competed at the Revolution National Talent Competition at the Seawall Galveston Convention Center in Galveston, Texas. I danced in four routines and placed 1st in the Junior Level 1 Hip-Hop solo category and 2nd in the Junior Level 1 Jazz solo. I also earned 1st in Junior Duo Level 1 Jazz. It was an amazing experience.

MAS: How did you qualify for Fly Dance’s Nationals in 2026, and what will you compete in?

MARIANA: Dancers have to score a 275 at a regional competition. I qualified at the Starpower International Talent Competition in Albuquerque. At Nationals in Las Vegas next June, I’ll compete in Jazz with a small group and Hip-Hop with a large group.

MAS: How can people order popcorn to support your trip to Fly Dance’s Nationals?

MARIANA: I’m selling popcorn for $10 a bag, with all money due by Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. To place an order or ask questions, please email my mom, Margarita Lopez, at margarita.lopez@mascharterschool.com.

MAS: Are there any other upcoming events where people can support you and your team?

MARIANA: Yes. I’ll perform with my team at the Dancing Stars annual car show and food drive on Nov. 16, 2025, at El Camino Real Academy, 3713 Isleta Blvd SW in Albuquerque, starting at 10:30 a.m. Donations at the event will help support our trip to nationals.

MAS: What do you like best about attending MAS?

MARIANA: I’ve grown a lot since I started here. My grades have improved, and I’ve learned so much about believing in myself. I really like the Choose Love Movement aspect of school and how supportive my teachers are. They remind me that I can do anything if I stay focused and work hard.

MAS: Where do you see yourself 15 years from now?

MARIANA: I see myself helping young students learn to dance and build their confidence. I want to inspire them the way my dance teachers have inspired me, to believe in themselves, follow their dreams, and grow at their own pace.

MAS: Last question… What’s your favorite food or restaurant?

MARIANA: My favorite restaurant is Panda Express. I can’t get enough of the orange chicken and fried rice. At home, my favorite dish is spaghetti tacos. They’re super fun to make and taste amazing.