🎺 FROM LOTERÍA TO MARIACHI, D99 CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE! 🎴

Hispanic Heritage Month is kind of a BIG DEAL here in Cicero District 99 — and we wouldn't have it any other way!

It's a time to recognize and celebrate the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and countless contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. And here in District 99, where Hispanic culture is such an important part of who we are, this month gives us an especially meaningful opportunity to celebrate the heritage represented throughout our schools and community.

And our students have been celebrating in some pretty amazing ways! 

Last week, Columbus West Pre-K turned Hispanic Heritage Month into a colorful celebration with Lotería Day! Students and staff were encouraged to dress up as their favorite Lotería cards, bringing this beloved traditional game to life throughout the school. From familiar characters to colorful costumes, it was a fun way for our youngest learners to experience and celebrate a tradition that holds special memories for so many families.

Meanwhile, the gym at Warren Park Elementary School was filled with MUSIC!

Warren Park welcomed the talented Morton East High School Mariachi Band, who treated students and staff to performances of some favorite Hispanic songs. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to experience the sounds, energy, and tradition of mariachi music — and to see older students proudly sharing their talents and culture with the next generation.

That is what makes Hispanic Heritage Month so special.

It's more than a celebration on the calendar. It's an opportunity for our students to learn about where they come from, discover the traditions of their classmates and neighbors, celebrate the people who came before them, and take pride in the cultures that help make our community what it is today.

And around District 99, there is SO much to celebrate!

¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana!