Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Hispanic Heritage topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
ABC Unified proclaims National Hispanic Heritage Month as students showcase bilingual programs
Summary
At its Sept. 17 meeting, the ABC Unified School District Board adopted a resolution recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month and heard student leaders from Gar, Whitney and Citos high schools describe cultural programming, college access work and bilingual pathways.
The ABC Unified School District Board of Education voted Sept. 17 to adopt a resolution recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month running Sept. 15–Oct. 15, and heard student leaders describe classroom and extracurricular efforts to celebrate Latino culture and expand college access.
Equity officer Mr blae Watson told trustees the district is centering Hispanic Heritage Month in schools and programs, saying the celebration ‘‘represents an important opportunity to connect to what ABCUSD values for how we develop our students.’’ The resolution read into the record noted the district’s Hispanic population at 45.6% and affirmed the district’s commitment to recognizing contributions of Hispanic Americans.
Student leaders spoke about school projects and cultural programs. Pamela Cruz of Gar High School introduced a video documenting a traditional Mexican dance and said, "I like showing my culture to other people." Mato Roman of Whitney High School urged more outreach to help students navigate college applications and suggested better promotion and transportation to college events. Sarah Lopez of Citos High School described classroom work that connects students to Hispanic role models and argued the month can provide ‘‘an educational experience for all’’ by integrating cultural content into instruction.
Trustees responded with offers of support. Clerk Mr noola asked how the board could help the students reach parents who face language barriers; trustees suggested translation services and earlier outreach to families. The board also discussed district participation in a new visual and performing arts contest for middle and high school students, with an Oct. 7 submission deadline announced by staff.
The board unanimously approved the resolution recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month by voice vote (7–0). The meeting continued with other agenda items and was adjourned later in the evening.
