GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) — Burton Elementary School held its third annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration last week, bringing scholars together to recognize and honor Latin American cultures through learning, hands-on activities, and shared traditions.
The celebration began with a school-wide parade, as scholars from kindergarten through fifth grade walked the campus in clothing that reflected their cultural heritage. Fútbol jerseys from multiple countries, traditional cortes and huipils, and shirts featuring national flags could be seen throughout the event. Families of scholars also joined the parade and subsequent festivities, sharing in the vibrant celebration of the entire Burton community.
Following the parade, scholars rotated through a variety of cultural stations designed to celebrate different aspects of Latin American identity. One station offered a game of lotería, while another invited scholars to participate in relay-race-style soccer drills, encouraging teamwork and friendly competition. A singalong station provided opportunities to enjoy traditional music together, and the snack station featured homemade conchas and aguas frescas, generously prepared by families and community partners.
At the craft station, scholars created bracelets using the colors of their family’s or chosen country’s flag. Reflecting on his bracelet, one fifth-grade scholar shared, “My bracelet represents my culture. I used green, blue, and white because those colors are all on Guatemala’s flag.”
In the week leading up to the event, each classroom studied a specific Latin American country, incorporating history, geography, and cultural traditions into daily lessons. This in-class learning was directly connected to the festivities of the day, allowing scholars to deepen their understanding of and appreciation for the countries being honored during the celebration.
Now in its third year, Burton Elementary’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration has become a meaningful tradition. More than a single event, it reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to creating an environment where all scholars feel recognized, valued, and connected to their diverse community.
