Porter Elementary School celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Students are learning about Hispanic history and traditions through food, music and dance while seeing cultures represented within their school.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Porter Elementary students are learning about Hispanic culture, traditions and history through activities celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.

Porter Elementary Principal Regina English says the month-long celebration gives students a chance to learn about and experience the culture and traditions represented within their school.

“We celebrate the month by giving our students opportunities to experience Hispanic culture, food, music, dance, and Hispanic traditions,” English said. “It’s a meaningful way to celebrate diversity and help every student feel seen, valued, and connected.”

Alex Perez, a first-grade teacher at Porter Elementary, says students are also learning how folk dance connects them to the history, stories and traditions of different Latin American cultures.

“Folk dance is a tradition in Mexico and other counties in Latin America,” Perez said. “Folk dance is more than just choreography; it tells stories passed down from generations. I wanted our students to learn about the different cultures and styles. There are different styles, it’s a world of choreography and traditions.”

English and Perez say representation matters, giving students the chance to see their cultures reflected in their school while building confidence in who they are and what they can achieve.

“To walk away with a greater appreciation for Hispanic culture, and a deeper understanding that our differences are something to celebrate, they make us unique,” English said.

“They will feel a sense of belonging and feel welcomed,” Perez said. “It’s important for them to be exposed to different traditions and cultures that they can relate to. So, I’m really happy students were able to see the different traditions today.”