How One DC Charter School Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

We are in the midst of Hispanic Heritage Month 2013 – one of the many year-round events where programs within First Book’s network create learning experiences and lasting memories for the children they serve. One of these programs is CentroNía, a multicultural learning center in Washington, DC.

CentroNía’s librarian Josarie Molina, illustrates how the program recently celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month through photos (courtesy of CentroNía’s DC Bilingual Public Charter School) that show a range of fun activities made available to their students.

Over 40 students along with their teachers and some parents gathered at CentroNía’s auditorium called La Plaza, to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

On Friday, September 27^th, La Plaza was decorated with colorful garlands made by 4-year-olds, the music teacher played his guitar and Josarie Molina, CentroNía’s librarian initiated sing-along songs. Everyone sang, “Debajo un boton, ton, tonnn…” (Underneath a Button), a popular song in Latin America.

The art teacher prepared materials and students designed Latin American flags.

There was even a guacamole demonstration. Students got to see step-by-step the process of making a delicious dip with fresh ingredients all mixed in the Mexican traditional mortar and pestle called molcajete.

Books are an essential learning tool for the students at CentroNía. “Children learn to be comfortable navigating two languages and learn about different cultures, helping them become life-long learners, building their self-confidence, and teaching them to be caring and respectful of everyone.” says Josarie Molina.

If CentroNía has inspired your program to participate in Hispanic Heritage Month, then First Book can help you get started with the celebration! Check out First Book’s Stories For All collection under the Hispanic Interest section on the First Book Marketplace.