BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WBNG) — Sept. 15 marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, a time of celebration and pride in Hispanic cultures. For Glenmarie McDuffie, who has taught Spanish for 12 years at Binghamton High School, it’s a month she looks forward to each year.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to share our cultures, our diversity, our traditions, our food, our music,” McDuffie said. “Use this month to educate people that probably haven’t had the opportunity to interact with Latino or Hispanic people.”
Ninth grade student Daniela Acosta is one of many Spanish-speaking students at BHS. She said being a bilingual student comes with its challenges but has been a rewarding experience.
“I can explain to people when they need help, especially because a lot of people here don’t speak English,” Acosta said. “So, it’s good to understand both because sometimes they need a lot of help with it.”
Associate principal Eudes Clarke moved to America from Panama and attended school in the Bronx starting in fifth grade. He said that experience motivated him to stay in education.
“Back then I had supportive teachers that helped me learn the language, helped me learn to write, read,” Clarke said. “I think for us here, you know, our challenge is to further support these students with, you know, language, writing, reading.”
He said giving that help back to students is what it’s all about.
“It’s enriching to me to see the students in the hallways walking by and, you know, challenging themselves,” Clarke said. “Working hard in classes and being successful when they graduate.”
Binghamton High School celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by learning about historic Hispanic figures and offering foods native to Spanish-speaking countries.
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