The Putnam County School District (PCSD) hosted an unforgettable celebration on October 18, 2023, at the C.L. Overturf, Jr. District Center, marking Hispanic Heritage Month in grand style. This colorful event was a true testament to our commitment to honoring and celebrating the rich cultural heritage that lies at the core of the Hispanic community.
The morning began with a dynamic Hat Dance Performance, featuring the youngest stars of our school district - Middleton-Burney Elementary School (MBES) Pre-K & Kindergarten Students. These talented youngsters, including A'riyah Baker, Aubre Angibea, Destiny Torres, Isabella Chavez, Isaias Canela, Lee Wingfield, Marielena Mclain, Osiris McCoy, Thiago Guevara, Viviana Miller, and Yahaira Garcia, demonstrated their dedication and enthusiasm by delivering a spirited and rhythmic hat dance.
Continuing with the event, two outstanding MBES students, Deborah Zonicle and Isabel Cruz, presented the Highlights of Hispanic Culture. Their heartfelt words and cultural insights allowed everyone in attendance to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the heritage they represent.
The stage truly came alive with a Dance Performance by our talented Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School students - Elizabeth Arrizon, Brenda Perez, Gardenia Phetsaya, and Litzy Aboytes. Their captivating performance illustrated the vibrancy and liveliness of Hispanic dance forms.
One of the most memorable moments was the parade of Hispanic Heritage Traditional Fashion, with MBES students showcasing a dazzling array of outfits. A'riyah Baker, Aubre Angibea, Destiny Torres, Isabella Chavez, Isaias Canela, Lee Wingfield, Osiris McCoy, Thiago Guevara, Viviana Miller, Yahaira Garcia, Kayden Miller, Jacob Ridenhour, Jocelin Smith, America Nations, Kevin Altamirano, Bethany Vargas, Ky'ana Gill, Carolina Gonzalez, Isabel Cruz, and Yaquelin Garcia proudly presented the vibrant and diverse styles and colors of Hispanic attire. It was a showcase of cultural pride that touched the hearts of all in attendance.
The event also took a regal turn as we celebrated young ladies in their Quinceañera Dresses, a significant and cherished rite of passage in Hispanic culture. Alizey Soliz, Mayte Cortez, and Gabriela Marquez looked absolutely radiant as they graced the event, representing the beauty and tradition that lies at the heart of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Our Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration was a celebration and a profound testament to our commitment to celebrating diversity, unity, and understanding. As a school district, we firmly believe that in our diversity, we find strength, resilience, and unity. Our commitment to embracing and celebrating these cultures throughout the year is a testament to our dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all our students.
Watch a recording of the event HERE
Pictures from the event available HERE