Growing up in Manteca, Alex Orr knew nothing of the middle school dances.

He’s the chairman of the Youth Advisory Commission, which co-sponsors the event in conjunction with the Manteca Parks and Recreation Department.

A senior at Sierra High, Orr worked the glow-stick booth Friday at the event held at the Golden West School Community Gym.

“It’s pretty cool,” said Orr. “But I really never go to dances.”

The dance is open to sixth- through eighth- grade students from any of the Manteca Unified School District sites.

Victor Lujan from Jamm’n Jumpers was the deejay, playing dance tunes including the timeless “Cha Cha Slide” by DJ Casper.

Few, if any, were bold enough to hit the dance floor early on. These monthly events are held from 6 to 9 p.m., with the cost at $5 per student and capacity at the Golden West facility at 635.

“It’s more of a social event,” Orr said.

Students are required to have their school ID or proof of the school site in which they attend along with the grade level. Furthermore, the school dress code is enforced while security is provided by the Manteca Police Department.

The Youth Advisory Commission made possible the snacks and refreshments.

Brandy Clark, who is the recreation supervisor for the City of Manteca, indicated that 25 percent of the admission of each dance will go towards the Manteca Parks and Recreation scholarship funds.

Any money raised at dances from concessions, glow sticks or other goodies will help support the city-sponsored community events such as battle of the bands, teen / senior prom, the Halloween carnival, and the various Sober Grad programs.

“These dances provide a fun and safe environment for our kids,” Clark said. “It’s something to do for that ‘tween’ age group.”