National Hispanic Heritage Month takes place from September 15 to October 15 every year as a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino/Hispanic community. In the Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD), our Board of Education has adopted a resolution proclaiming September as National Hispanic Heritage Month.
All month long, we are celebrating and showcasing our American Latino/Hispanic students, staff, and families. We also asked five employees to share what Hispanic Heritage Month means to them and its importance. Here is what a few of our staff had to say:
“Hispanic Heritage Month means a time of celebration and pride for being part of the Latinx community but also a time of reflection for each of us to continue leading for equitable and quality education for all,” says Director of Early Childhood Education, Dr. Paula Madrigal-Patel.
Director of Expanded Learning Opportunities, Omar Calleros, shares, “Hispanic Heritage Month is the celebration of perseverance and contributions from all Hispanics around the world.”
Monica Cruz Mertz, an Instructional Assistant at Heritage Elementary, says, "Coming from Mexico and being able to support students in a situation similar to mine means a lot to me. It lets me connect with students and make them feel truly welcomed.”
"Hispanic Heritage Month is a gentle reminder to many of us that we need to reflect on the connections we have to the people who came before us, celebrate the culture we share, and understand that we need to stand in our worth as we head into the future," says Hazel Goes Cook Elementary fifth grade teacher Anna Troncoso-Hunt.
Expanded Learning Programs Specialist, Priscilla Garza, shares, "I am proud to work and live in a community that highlights and celebrates Hispanic heritage. I am honored that our vibrant culture is celebrated throughout the district and community.”
CVESD takes pride in acknowledging National Hispanic Heritage and we are honored to be able to celebrate our American Latino/Hispanic community throughout the month of September.