Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Shorecrest Lower School
October 20, 2023
There is so much that happens in Lower School to help children learn about themselves, other people, and the world around them. It is in the day-to-day learning, the books they read, the conversations they have, inquiry, SEL, Art, Music, Spanish - even PE lessons. Students get to know one another better, appreciate both similarities and differences, and learn from one another's unique backgrounds and experiences. The goal is to nurture a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and recognize the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. The Lower School came together each Friday of Hispanic Heritage Month, and a different class acknowledged the month by inviting members of the community who are Hispanic or of Hispanic descent to share their stories and experiences.
During these gatherings, students learned about community members from various Spanish-speaking countries, connecting with them on a personal level. From surprising facts like Mr. Roberto's love for Harry Potter books, to the backgrounds of Lower School Teachers like Roberto and Laura from Spain, Joelle (Facilities Department) from Puerto Rico, and Brenda Rosas (JK Teacher) from Mexico, the students discovered the richness of their school community. Students also met individuals from Cuba who help keep our classrooms and lunchrooms clean, as well as Kindergarten Teacher Ms. Acosta from Panama, Band Teacher Mrs. Bryer from Cuba, and Señora Jaime-Allwood from El Salvador.
Kindergarten students introduced five SAGE workers who hail from Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Columbia. Food is a universal connector, and a round of applause went out when SAGE announced they were serving special Hispanic-themed meals weekly during this month. Sharing meals from different cultures fosters an appreciation for diversity and unity.
To conclude the celebrations, Mr. Roberto led the students in a song about all the Spanish speaking countries. They sang it together and showed each country’s flag.
A big thank you to Lower School Spanish Teachers Señora Emili Jaime-Allwood and Señora Laura Garcia Trinindad for orchestrating the events.
