Latinx/e and Hispanic Heritage Month at Poly

Throughout September and October, Poly students explored the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Latinx/e and Hispanic communities in the United States. Across all three divisions, activities brought history and culture to life through art, music, literature, food, and meaningful conversations.

In the Upper School, an assembly organized by affinity group Latines Unides and faculty advisor Alex Jimenez focused on championing hidden voices. Historian and author Roberta H. Martínez delivered the keynote address, highlighting the contributions of Latinx/e communities to Pasadena’s history. The assembly also featured a student musical performance, art, and creative writing. Outside, cultural booths offered foods from Latin America and showcased the diversity of Latinx/e experiences.

In the Middle School, co-presidents Jack F. and Juliette B. ’31 introduced Latinx/e and Hispanic Heritage Month with a video during Morning Meeting and curated music for the community to enjoy throughout the celebration. During Advisory, students played Lotería, a traditional Mexican game similar to bingo, and learned about its cultural significance.

The Middle School also welcomed Latina filmmaker and Poly parent Michelle Salcedo P ’27, ’31, who spoke about the importance of authenticity and collaboration in storytelling and the power of stories to connect people across different backgrounds and experiences.

In the Lower School, students explored a collection of books by Hispanic and Latinx/e authors in the library, along with a map featuring the flags of Latin American countries that encouraged them to discover more about the region’s geography and cultural diversity. Students also played a library-created version of Lotería featuring children’s book covers and titles in Spanish.  

The Lower School’s exploration of Latinx/e and Hispanic heritage also extended into the classroom, where lessons and resources developed by the Latinx/e faculty/staff committee centered on the question, “Did You Know? The People and Stories That Shape America.” Students explored the origins of the vaquero tradition and its influence on the American cowboy.

Together, these experiences offered opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of history, culture, and traditions while celebrating the diverse voices and stories that shape both Poly and the broader Pasadena community.