September 15 to October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month. During this time, Haymarket Elementary School is recognizing the contributions and celebrating the cultural history of accomplished Latinos in the United States. Lead by Casey Cline, English to speakers of other languages (ESOL) teacher at Haymarket Elementary, a group of fifth graders are presenting morning announcements with a series of educational videos broadcast as news shows. They planned brief presentations that share the history, background, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Examples to date include Frida Kahlo, Cesar Chavez, Desi Arnaz, and Ellen Ochoa.

The students tried out to be presenters on the news through Flipgrid auditions using the school’s new technology this year. In addition to sharing about these figures so the whole school learns of their accomplishments, these activities give the student producers an opportunity to practice clear public speaking skills using expression and excitement, operating production technology, and filling leadership roles.

“As an ESOL teacher, celebrating and recognizing heritage months is important to me,” said Cline. “Fostering respect and open minds for other cultures, while celebrating our differences, can unite students, helping us all understand the perspective of others and widen our own.”