September 15 through October 15 is National Spanish Heritage Month. During this month, the influence and contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States are highlighted and celebrated.
At Carolina Forest High School, we observe and honor Spanish Heritage Month in many different ways.
Throughout the month, Spanish teacher Tracy Stroud helps recognize our students by hosting various lunch games such as cake eating contests, dance lessons, and pinata whacking. Stroud also arranges the annual assembly that includes all of the different aspects of being a Hispanic American.
“After 29 years of teaching Spanish, I have been blessed to teach and get to know not only my Hispanic student population but my Hispanic colleagues as well. They have played an important role in bringing about positive change in our community and deserve to be recognized for all they have contributed to society as a whole, including traditions, food, dance and language,” Stroud stated.
Stroud makes sure that the Hispanic American students’ culture is seen and recognized so that people can learn and gain a better understanding of what encompasses this special month.
“I have always been fascinated by different cultures and lived in Mexico studying the language and culture. At the heart of any language is the people and getting to know and understand our similarities and differences enhances our cultural awareness and makes us more adaptable to diverse situations,” Stroud added.
At CFHS the Spanish National Honor Society continues to contribute and make sure that the Hispanic American community is well known for their traditions and culture. They work together to contrive many various activities and performances to celebrate this special month.
CFHS student and Spanish National Honor Society member, Vianey Duron-Aguirre loves to celebrate this month in many ways.
“I celebrate Spanish Heritage Month by organizing a party and getting together with friends. At school, we celebrate by arranging a presentation about all the Latin countries,” Duron-Aguirre stated.
Duron-Aguirre thinks that CFHS does a great job at making sure every culture is seen.
Duron-Aguirre added, “I would describe our Spanish National Honor Society at CFHS as a family that works together for one common goal being to educate others about Spanish-speaking countries and their cultures they care about.”
National Spanish Heritage Month is more than just a title and a name. This month is about recognizing the people who make our country the most beautiful and diverse it can be.
