DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Downingtown Area School District is expanding cultural programming across its schools through Oct. 15, using Hispanic Heritage Month to bring Hispanic and Latino history, music, food, and traditions into classroom activities and student events.
The district’s observance began Sept. 15 and includes programming designed to supplement cultural instruction already incorporated into Spanish classes throughout the school year.
At Lionville Middle School, students and staff will participate in music trivia, collaborate on a mural and examine how geography influences life across the Spanish-speaking world.
“As a Spanish teacher, I love seeing students make meaningful connections to the language and cultures we study,” Lionville Middle School Spanish teacher Samantha Kelly said. “Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to recognize the rich history, contributions, and diverse voices of Hispanic communities.”
Programming elsewhere in the district will include performances by Conjunto Philadelphia, a group focused on preserving the musical traditions of pre-Revolutionary Cuba.
Several schools will also work with Aramark on lunch tasting events featuring dishes created by Hispanic and Latino chefs employed by the food-service company.
DASD Director of Student Relations and School Climate Justin Brown said the district is using the month to give students additional opportunities to learn about Hispanic and Latino cultures and traditions.
“My favorite part of this month is seeing the opportunities our teachers and staff create in their classrooms to help students learn about and celebrate Hispanic and Latino cultures,” Brown said.
The district’s Hispanic Heritage Month programming runs through Oct. 15.
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