Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 through October 15. Throughout the month, the School District of Palm Beach County honors the unique contributions and diversity of Hispanic and Latino culture. Additionally, a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month will be on the agenda at the September 18 regular School Board meeting.
“For me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a truly special time to honor our ancestors, celebrate our cultural richness, and inspire future generations,” said Christian Gárate, Associate Director of Multicultural Education & Migrant Programs in the District. “It’s a reminder of the strength and resilience of our community, and I’m proud to be a part of this heritage.”
This year’s theme is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” The theme reflects the fact that Hispanics are the fastest-growing ethnic group in Palm Beach County, and the School District is home to nearly 65,000 Hispanic students. This has led to an increase in Spanish Dual Language Program offerings that are now available in 35 schools throughout the District (23 elementary, eight middle, and four high schools). Six of the schools are also certified as International Spanish Academies.
“As a Latina educator in the School District, I am deeply honored to be entrusted with the responsibility to serve as a bridge between cultures, empowering students to honor their roots while pioneering change, ensuring that all of our diverse voices – not just those of the Hispanic community – contribute to the shared vision of a more inclusive and equitable future,” said Allyson Berrios de Gacharna, Program planner for Secondary Education. “Together, we can shape a future where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to make a difference.”
During Hispanic Heritage month, the District will acknowledge the culture and traditions of students, teachers, staff, and community members who trace their roots to Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries in North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
Various events and activities will take place throughout the County to highlight the contributions of Hispanics to the nation and the local community, including the Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards Celebration. The Florida Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce (FHACC) will hold the event on Wednesday, September 25, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel. Each year, the FHACC recognizes a group of honorees in business, teaching, and academics. This year they will recognize eight Hispanic students and one Hispanic teacher from the District.
Hispanic Heritage Month was signed into law in 1988 by then-President Ronald Reagan. September 15 was chosen as the starting point because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua) that all declared independence in 1821. Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18.