RCCD Launches Hip Hop Dance Program to Support Online Student Wellness and Belonging

02/06/2026

Riverside Community College District (RCCD) is strengthening its commitment to online student engagement and mental health through “Hip Hop Into Spring,” a culturally responsive, movement-based wellness program designed specifically to support students enrolled in online courses.

Early student response highlights strong interest and underscores the need for innovative, inclusive opportunities that help online learners feel connected, supported, and engaged beyond the virtual classroom.

“This partnership with Distance Education allows us to create meaningful opportunities for students who primarily learn online to connect with campus when they are able,” said Tracy Bennett, Director of Health and Wellness Services.

“Programs like our drop-in hip hop class give distance education students a chance to engage in physical activity, build friendships, and experience a sense of community that helps reduce isolation while strengthening their connection to the college,” explained Bennett.

“At Moreno Valley College, our ‘You Belong’ message extends across the entire district and within our virtual campuses. We want all students to know that support is always available whether they are in person or online, from medical and mental health services to basic needs resources, and that when they step onto campus, they are stepping into a community that is here to support their success,” further expressed Bennett.

A total of 103 students expressed interest in the program, with the highest participation from Riverside City College (50 students) and Moreno Valley College (45 students), followed by Norco College (8 students). The data reflects meaningful districtwide reach and demonstrates growing demand for wellness programming tailored to the needs of online learners.

“Online students often experience learning in isolation, so it is critical that we create opportunities for connection, belonging, and well-being beyond the virtual classroom. Programs like Hip Hop Into Spring demonstrate how culturally responsive, movement-based experiences can help online learners feel seen, supported, and engaged in meaningful ways,” explained BuShell, Dean of Educational Services and Online Learning at RCCD.

Students identified several reasons for their interest, including the desire to combine physical activity with mental wellness, enthusiasm for hip hop culture, and appreciation for a low-pressure, inclusive environment. Many shared that they hope the class will reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and confidence, and provide emotional release and personal time—key factors that support both academic success and overall well-being for online students.

This program was led by Josh Curtis, also known as Josh 3 Thousand, a dance instructor, choreographer, and entrepreneur specializing in hip-hop choreography. He began his teaching and choreography journey at age 16 and has since worked with schools and dance studios across Southern California. Curtis has performed with and choreographed for artists such as Pharrell Williams, Glasses Malone, and Tyga. He also starred in The Dance Network TV series Steady Mobbin and appeared on So You Think You Can Dance. As director of the J3K Dance Company, Curtis is committed to cultivating both artistic excellence and personal growth, empowering his students to reach their full potential as dancers and creatives. That is why he was excited about the opportunity to give back to the community by teaching a drop-in Hip Hop class to Distance Education students at Moreno Valley College.

Josh 3 Thousand emphasized the impact of the program on students who often experience isolation in online learning environments.

“Some of them have opened up and told me that this has helped them mentally and physically,” Josh 3 Thousand said. “Providing this opportunity for the students that are online is a really good opportunity for them to come back out and really feel good about themselves.”

He also highlighted how the program fosters connection and community among online learners.

“I could see them opening up. Now they’re creating more friendships, more relationships throughout the program,” Josh 3 Thousand said.

Student feedback further revealed that psychological safety plays a critical role in participation. Online learners emphasized the importance of non-judgmental environments, clear invitations, and shared participation as key elements that make them feel welcomed and comfortable engaging in in-person wellness activities.

Overall, the data demonstrates strong student demand for culturally responsive, movement-based wellness programming designed with online learners in mind. RCCD leaders view “Hip Hop Into Spring” as a scalable model for future programming that supports online student belonging, mental health, and engagement across the district.

By centering the experiences of online learners and integrating culture, movement, and community-building, RCCD continues to expand holistic support strategies that foster connection, confidence, and student success.

Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications