Middle school pack groups discuss Hispanic Heritage Month

As celebrations continue for Hispanic Heritage Month, middle school pack groups discussed the importance of heritage and culture and learn more about Lin Manuel-Miranda and Jose Hernandez.
First, students learned about the history and significance of Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 because Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile, and Belize all celebrate their independence during this window of time. Originally, the United States recognized Hispanic Heritage Week; however, now we celebrate for 30 days.

Students also studied two influential Hispanic Americans: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Broadway playwright and star in Hamilton and In the Heights, and Jose Hernandez, NASA astronaut. In a recorded interview students watched, Miranda shared about the dedication required to pursue his Broadway dreams and the deeply personal passion that fueled his creativity. While some students were familiar with Miranda, few students knew the story of Jose Hernandez, a Mexican-American astronaut born in California. Hernandez did not learn English until age 12, and despite being rejected from NASA 11 times, Hernandez’s perseverance eventually paid off.

Following their introduction to Hispanic Heritage Month and the stories of Miranda and Hernandez, students discussed what they admired about each individual and the commonalities they shared with each individual.

We look forward to continuing the celebration of our Hispanic brothers and sisters!
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