Another Hispanic Heritage Month has come and gone at Two Rivers, but this one was especially notable. Students were challenged to explore how Hispanic and Latinx cultures have significantly contributed to shaping society today. 

Through the rich history and traditions of Hispanic and Latinx cultures, students learned about the values of different Spanish-speaking countries, influential figures, and traditional foods, many of which people enjoy today. As a community, we celebrated the significant strides made by those who are part of these communities through various initiatives.

Extending beyond the classroom, these initiatives were brought to life across each campus:

Middle School 

TRMS first highlighted the start of Hispanic Heritage Month at Back to School Night, where students and families sampled popular foods from different Spanish-speaking countries, including pupusas and Arroz y frijoles (rice and beans).

Students engaged in a variety of fun and meaningful activities, one of which was participating in trivia games that involved learning about Hispanic Heritage flags and guessing which country each flag represented. Additionally, Yolanda Arroyo Pizarro, author of El Cuenta – Papapedia, the middle school’s book of the month, met with all middle school students to read and dissect the meaning of her book. This event unfolded a special moment of “Learning Better Together” as students discovered the diverse history, culture, and significant symbols of Hispanic heritage. 

During Crew, students and teachers collaborated on a door decoration contest, with judges selecting which Crew’s door exemplified the most pride and festivity. To close out the month, our eighth-grade students fully immersed themselves in the culture by participating in a traditional Quinceañera — dressing up in traditional Quinceañera attire, dancing, and singing.

“What I enjoy most about Hispanic Heritage Month at Two Rivers is the initiatives; we focus a lot on traditional customs, foods, and values, and I thought that was really cool. It is important to celebrate Hispanic and Latinx culture because it helps students learn about other countries and the traditions they have. Also, Hispanic culture and Latin America are a big part of humanity as a whole.”

– Nicolas Cabrera, Eighth Grade Student

Elementary School

Both elementary schools kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with a strong start during Back-to-School Night, where the Spanish department offered merchandise, including pencils, bracelets, journals, and keychains to families. They also organized slide decks that highlighted traditional dances and foods, which were shared daily in Crew.

“During Hispanic Heritage Month, we have the opportunity to share who we are as a community, and I hope that students can understand and appreciate diversity. When I say appreciate diversity, I mean respecting every tradition and values that exist within Hispanic Heritage,” stated Spanish teacher, Señor Cody. 

Community meetings consisted of students learning about influential figures, including icons like Jennifer Lopez, who is known for singing, acting, and dancing. To conclude the month, students and their parents participated in a sampling kiosk fair, where families brought traditional dishes, such as Arroz con leche, pupusas, and tamales, as well as drinks.

At Two Rivers, we prioritize culture and community, encouraging students to respect and appreciate cultures different from their own. Through these experiences, we hope that our students will embody our mission ‘to nurture a diverse group of students to become lifelong, active participants in their own education, develop a sense of self and community, and become responsible and compassionate members of society.’                                                                                                                                         

~Isa Walker, Communications Associate