San Antonio mariachi featured on new PBS KIDS Series
“AMERICA’S AWESOME KIDS”
For Immediate Release
SAN ANTONIO, TX (May 27, 2026) — As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, KLRN is proud to announce its role in the production of AMERICA’S AWESOME KIDS, a new live-action short-form series premiering May 22, 2026, on PBS KIDS.
Produced by GBH Kids in coordination with 23 partnering PBS stations across the country —including KLRN— the series is part of PBS’ “PBS KIDS Across America” initiative. AMERICA’S AWESOME KIDS features 25 mini-documentaries that showcase kids from across the country sharing what is special about where they live, their hobbies and passions, and how they are making a positive impact in their local communities.
From taking care of llamas in Iowa, to Bollywood dancing in Georgia, to exploring Cajun culture in Louisiana, the series celebrates the unique spirit of the next generation. Episodes showcase what makes local communities special and how kids are making a positive impact on the world around them.
“We are thrilled to see Mateo represent Texas on America’s Awesome Kids,” said Arthur Emerson, President & CEO of KLRN. “As the world’s youngest mariachi, this talented young man exemplifies the vibrant cultura and traditions of our region. ¡Felicidades, Mateo! Estámos muy orgullosos de ti”.
KLRNcontributed to the series by suggesting Mateo be a part of America’s Awesome Kids, along with helping to tell his story. We visited Mateo at his family’s home to learn about his life, the impressive number of instruments he can play, and we even got to hear him sing “Happy Birthday” to his teacup chihuahua, Memo.
“America’s Awesome Kids reflects the lives of our young audience while also introducing them to the wide array of places, cultures and customs from around the country,” said Dorothea Gillim, executive producer and creative director of GBH Kids. “Working with other PBS stations on this series has been a great opportunity to leverage the strength of public media to capture a uniquely local story for a national audience”
Viewers across South Central Texas can watch AMERICA’S AWESOME KIDS beginning May 22 on KLRN channel 9, the PBS KIDS 24/7 channel, and streaming for free on the PBS KIDS Video App, pbskids.org and on the AMERICA’S AWESOME KIDS YouTube channel.
For more information about local airtimes and community events, visit www.klrn.org.
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About KLRN
KLRN is an award-winning public television station broadcasting to a 33-county radius in South Central Texas. The mission of KLRN is to open a world of lifelong learning through trustworthy and enriching programs on-air, online, and in the community. Learn more at www.klrn.org.
About GBH
GBH is the leading multiplatform creator for public media in America. As the largest producer of content for PBS and partner to NPR and PRX, GBH delivers compelling experiences, stories and information to audiences wherever they are. GBH produces digital and broadcast programming that engages, illuminates and inspires, through drama and science, history, arts, culture and journalism. Find more information at gbh.org.
About PBS KIDS: PBS KIDS believes the world is full of possibilities, and so is every child. As the number one educational media brand for kids, PBS KIDS helps children ages 2-8 learn lessons that last a lifetime. Through media and community-based programs, PBS KIDS sparks children’s curiosity, helping them succeed in school and life. Families can stream PBS KIDS for free anytime on the PBS KIDS Video app, connected TV devices, pbskids.org, and more.
Contact:
Kristina Killingsworth
Director of Digital & Marketing
kkillingsworth@klrn.org | (210) 270-9000