Wednesday, September 15, marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. 

During Hispanic Heritage Month we recognize the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.

A great collection of resources, virtual events, and activities hosted by the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and National Portrait Gallery—Smithsonian Institution is available for teachers, learners, and their families. 

Classroom activities and programming are scheduled throughout the month to highlight and celebrate Hispanic heritage at our school. 

On the Merle-Smith Campus, students in Mr. Gonzalo del Real's class will be immersing themselves in the lives of Latino heroes and eventually interacting with peers in character as the person they researched. 

English teacher Ms. MacNair Randall shared poetry curated by poets.org with our community to kick off the month.

“Ode to the Head Nod” by Elizabeth Acevedo
“In a Neighborhood in Los Angeles” by Francisco X. Alarcón
“Central America in My Heart” by Oscar Gonzales
“Black Parade” by Darrel Alejandro Holnes
“The Teller of Tales” by Gabriela Mistral 
“a brief meditation on breath” by Yesenia Montilla
“I Walk Into Every Room and Yell Where the Mexicans At” by José Olivarez
“Faithful Forest” by Alberto Ríos 
“Paper Cuts” by Natalie Scenters-Zapico
 “Nó, Actually, Soy Salvadoreño” by Javier Zamora

This is just a preview of what's to come! Stay tuned for more activities that celebrate the influence, contributions, and stories of Hispanic Americans.

Hispanic Heritage Month runs until October 15, 2021.