How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Schools: Embracing Cultural Diversity

As a Mexican-American family in the USA, I’ve made it my mission to pass down our family stories to my children, who embody a blend of Mexican, German, and Chinese backgrounds. Each heritage adds a rich layer to our family’s history of resilience and cultural richness. Our ancestors left their homelands for better opportunities, just as we did, leaving a legacy I’m proud to share with my children.

Great grand parent chiness — My great-grandfather immigrated from Canton, China, to Mexico. He was my abuelito Mauro’s father

German great grand parents laura muller — My great-grandma was German; she met my great-grandfather, Enrique, while he was studying in college in Germany. Although he had a German background, he was born in Chihuahua, Mexico.

At my children’s school, I actively participate in cultural activities to combat stereotypes and showcase the beauty of our heritage. Here are some activities I’ve embraced to celebrate our rich Hispanic heritage whenever the opportunity arises.

conchita rodriguez moreno y mauro antonio rodriguez leegi — My abuelitos, Concepción Moreno and Mauro Rodriguez Leegi, have a rich heritage. My grandma, Conchita, was born to a Spanish immigrant father and an Indigenous Mexican mother, whom we affectionately called Quetita

My abuelita Conchis with Jorge when he was around 3 — My son Jorge met his great-grandmother Concepción on a few trips to Mexico. We used to call her Conchis. She has been my inspiration to keep cooking traditional Mexican food.

Here are some creative ways we celebrate our Mexican heritage at school. I hope these ideas inspire you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at your school and embrace cultural diversity:

Piñata Party: When Jorge’s first-grade teacher invited parents to share cultural experiences, we couldn’t resist bringing in a piñata. This vibrant tradition captivated everyone, and soon, we were asked to bring another for another class!

hispanic heritage month piñata celebration — We explained the Piñata tradition and the meaning of breaking a piñata.

2. Day of the Dead Altar: We created a life-sized altar at school adorned with photos of our ancestors and explanations of their significance. The altar became a focal point, drawing visits from every classroom. Learn about the symbols and colors of Dia de Muertos.

dia de los muertos altar for hispanic heritage month school celebration — My husband Jorge and I finished the Altar de Muertos set up at the boys’ school for Hispanic Heritage Month.

day of the death altar set up — I added notes under each person’s picture explaining how that person was related to the boys.

3. Mexican Candies Day: This year, I introduced spicy Mexican candies to the school, accompanied by an interactive display asking, “ARE YOU BRAVE ENOUGH?” It was heartwarming to see children of all backgrounds enjoying the flavors and learning about our culinary traditions. You can download printables if you want to make a similar display.

Spicy Mexican candies display for hispanic heritage month celebration — I was surprised no one ended up enchilado!

4. Cooking Class: During Heritage Month, I hosted a cooking class where we made authentic Mexican dishes like Enchiladas Sauce and Authentic Mexican Chili Beans. Sharing these recipes and their cultural significance was a joy, with families eager to try them at home. If you would like to make this recipe to bring to school, here are the printables for the QR code to the recipe, as well as the list of ingredients for those with allergies

Laura Muller teaching how to make chili at a school presentation in Chicago — Heritage Month Mexican cooking class at my boy’s school.

authentic mexican chili recipes Competition — Mexican chili as we make it in the state of Chihuahua

5. Dia de Muertos Home Party: Last year, we hosted a Dia de Muertos party at home, complete with Authentic Mexican barbacoa tacos, churros, and hot chocolate. Children honored their departed loved ones by sharing stories and placing photos on our home altar—a touching experience for all.

my chuldren best friend eating barbacoa at our home for hispanic heritage month celebration — Everybody loved the homemade barbacoa tacos.

day of the death altar for children celebration — Each boy brought a picture of a beloved person to place on the altar and got the chance to tell the story of who that person was.

These activities deepen my children’s connection to their heritage and foster inclusivity and appreciation among their peers. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I encourage you to embrace and share your cultural traditions. Together, we can celebrate diversity and create meaningful connections within our communities.

Mexican American child celebrating hispanic heritage month — My son Oscar waving the Mexican flag in front of a Mexican Lucha Libre wrestler painting in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood.

I’d love to hear about your experiences celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month or trying out these ideas. Share your stories or questions in the comments below!

Feliz Hispanic Heritage Month!