Arts Education Program Faculty
La Plaza's team is thrilled to introduce our carefully selected faculty who will be instrumental in shaping the leaders of the future. Each member possesses a unique combination of expertise, experience, and passion for cultivating leadership skills in the next generation.
Alondra Paco
Alondra Paco (Her/she) is an interdisciplinary artist from San Jose, CA. She earned her BA in Computer Graphics and Animation from Cogswell Polytechnic College. Currently, her practice centers on mural illustrations, watercolor, and creating mixed media pieces in partnership with Local Color, a Non-Profit Organization. She also teaches visual arts with the School of Arts and Culture. Her work can be seen via Instagram @alondrapaco93 and website (coming soon)
Monique Valenzuela
With over 20 years in the arts, Monique is a performer and educator most known for her soulful “ranchera” interpretations. Rooted in traditional Mexican folk music, Monique is currently a member of San Jose’s very own community staple, "Mariachi Azteca." Through her journey as an arts advocate, Monique has been able to collaborate with several music organizations throughout the Bay Area. Currently the Music Education Specialist at San Jose Jazz, Monique provides music education to over 1,000 students every year.
paty tapia-colon (yxaya)
Mexican Studio Artist. She studied at the School of Design of the National Institute of Fine Arts (EDINBA). Proud of her roots, she seeks to capture the cultural wealth of her ancestors. She has participated in projects with Somos Mayfair, Veggielution and as an art instructor at the School of Art and Culture (SoAC), The Audacy Performing Arts Project in the Bay Area. In addition, she is also an Aztec dancer and holistic therapist who uses her art as a tool for healing and ceremonial practices.
BRISSA NATHALIE IBARRA
Brissa began performing in musicals with San Jose’s Teatro De Los Pobres and spent over five years with the Children’s Musical Theatre of San Jose. She graduated from The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles in 2005. Notable roles include Helen Chavez in Let The Eagle Fly (2010) and Camila Rosario in In The Heights (2024). She has served as Executive Board Secretary for Teatro Nagual since 2018 and was previously Secretary at Union City’s Family Center, supporting families with social programs. With over 25 years of theatre experience, she is excited to bring her passion to the School of Arts and Culture.