Provided by PWCS
Each year, schools across PWCS recognize Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic Americans.
Here is just a sampling of the exciting learning opportunities and experiences for students and families during Hispanic Heritage Month 2023:
At Bull Run Middle School, ESOL teachers observed Hispanic Heritage Month with their students by exploring the story of Jose Hernández, a Mexican-American migrant farmer who became an astronaut. Hernandez was one of the astronauts on the space shuttle Discovery’s mission, and Bull Run Middle students took a field trip to the Smithsonian Udvar-Hazy Center, where the shuttle Discovery is on display.
Also, Bull Run hosts a special event for families annually to recognize and celebrate the Hispanic culture. On the morning of the event, a mariachi band played for students as they arrived at school. The school community came together that evening for a showcase of Hispanic cuisine, music, art, and a special dance demonstration by the Latino Dance team from Unity Reed High School. The event also included a gallery walk of students’ work focused on Hispanic culture.
“This was a day where Hispanic people are recognized for their culture and accepted,” said Jayson, a seventh-grade student at Bull Run. “This was important at Bull Run because the whole school is not Hispanic, so it is an honor to be celebrated.”
Ellis Elementary School celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with a lively community event. The evening began with an outdoor celebration with music and a traditional food potluck from the families and community. The students then participated in a parade of nations, where they waved flags from their countries on their march into the gymnasium. After a welcome from Principal LaShondra Rice and Assistant Principal Marta Rivera, the dance club performed a traditional dance before leading all the students and parents in a dance lesson.
“I think it is so much fun because we get to celebrate all the countries!” said Macy, a second-grade student at Ellis Elementary.
Principal LaShondra Rice discussed the importance of hosting a Hispanic Heritage event: “For our children to know who they are, where they’re from, and to embrace all of the many nationalities that represent our school.”
At Woodbridge Middle School, Hispanic faculty shared information with students about the Latin countries in which they were born and raised. During the morning announcements, staff members shared interactive videos and presentations with facts about their native countries, among them Chile, Panama, Puerto Rico, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.
Toward the end of Hispanic Heritage Month, Woodbridge Middle holds an event in the library in which Hispanic faculty present their countries. A beautifully decorated Hispanic Heritage Month bulletin board, located in the front of the school, was one more way for Woodbridge Middle to honor the contributions of Hispanic people to the world and the local community.
