National Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, Federal Way Public Schools is proud to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. This annual observance honors the rich histories, cultures, contributions, and achievements of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

At FWPS, we are committed to uplifting student voice and creating spaces where every scholar feels a sense of belonging, is recognized, valued, and heard. Throughout the month, we will showcase stories and videos from our students that highlight how Hispanic heritage is celebrated across our schools—through academics, art, performances, clubs, and cultural events.

Check back soon to view this year’s stories and celebrations. In the meantime, explore highlights from last year’s Hispanic Heritage Month recognitions: View 2024 stories here.

You can also view other observances in the FWPS Cultural & Religious Calendar here: www.fwps.org/culturalcalendar.

Scholars Shine With Musical and Dance Performances at Olympic View K-8

Olympic View K-8 recently hosted a vibrant assembly filled with student performances celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month! From folkloric dances to heartfelt musical numbers, scholars truly shined on stage. 

Highlights included fourth grade scholar Dayanara, who delivered a stunning rendition of the Mexican folk song La Llorona, and second graders from Ms. Cortes’ class, who performed the mariachi classic Cucurrucucú Paloma with guidance from FWHS teacher Mr. Guzman.

Dayanara’s proud grandmother, Linda, shared:

“Our culture is very rich, and we need our younger generation to learn this and know where they come from. As a family, we need to celebrate it together. I can’t wait to see how the other cultures celebrate too!”

Thank you to all the students, families, and staff who made this celebration so special! 💐

Pride, Culture, and Celebration at Valhalla Elementary

Valhalla Elementary School recently hosted its annual Hispanic Heritage Assembly, a vibrant celebration honoring National Hispanic Heritage Month. Students, staff, and families gathered to cheer on participants as students with Hispanic heritage proudly walked across the stage, showcasing colorful and traditional garments from their cultures.

One of the highlights was Mia, a fourth-grade scholar with Honduran roots, who performed a popular dance—joined on stage by her grandfather, adding a heartfelt touch to the performance. 

Fifth grader Juanangel, or Juanito as his teachers affectionately call him, wowed the crowd with his impressive cowboy lasso skills, while Carmina Padilla, a longtime Valhalla volunteer and former parent and grandparent of over 11 years, performed a traditional Mexican dance that captivated the audience. 

“It’s important to honor the heritage from Hispanic countries. My school always supports me no matter what!” shared Juanito, dressed in his Mexican cowboy attire.

Second grader Martha, wearing a beautiful white dress from Veracruz, Mexico, her father’s home state, said, “I like this event because it’s very beautiful and I learn more about other people! What I like about my school is that I learn many things and I can make lots of friends. Thank you, teachers, for making these events, and viva Veracruz (Mexico)!”

Third grader Maleni, dressed in a striking black dress with floral designs, shared, “Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at my school is very important to me every year because I feel prouder of myself. It makes me happy, and I love meeting new people.”

Her advice to others: “Always celebrate it, meet new people, and be proud of yourself.”

Bianca, a proud mom of a kindergartener and third grader who participated in the parade, reflected, “It is beautiful that our school instills this and to see everyone united. Children will carry that with them for a long time, and as a parent, it makes you feel better.”

Carmina added, “This is a beautiful celebration. We come from so many countries, and this celebration unifies us.”

Diana Flores, Valhalla’s Office Manager, whose parents are from Jalisco, Mexico, shared, “Valhalla celebrates so that our scholars know their culture is appreciated and honored. This gives them a sense of belonging and shows them they are valued members of our community.”

Celebrating Culture and Community: Decatur High School’s Latin Student Union

The Latin Student Union (LSU) at Decatur High School is making a big impact by celebrating Hispanic culture and sharing it with the school community throughout the school year. 

During National Hispanic Heritage Month, LSU members create vibrant posters featuring facts about Latin American countries, which are proudly displayed throughout the school. 

Beyond this, the club organizes events for cultural celebrations such as Día de Muertos and winter festivities, bringing students together in meaningful ways.

“The club is a place where Decatur’s Latin community can gather and feel safe. It’s a place where they can see a small piece from their country, or their family’s country and heritage—of who they are,” said Gael, a senior and LSU member.

Gael also shared how the club has helped him grow:

“The club helps me academically and socially. It helps me know more about who I am and helps me meet many other Latinos at Decatur HS.”

For Nelson, LSU’s president and a senior, the club is about connection and representation:

“The biggest motivation that I have every day is that I’m going to LSU. The greatest satisfaction is making someone smile because they have been heard, they have been seen.”

Nelson emphasizes that LSU is open to everyone:

“What we want is to gather around and have a great time with people from other countries and cultures.”

The Latin Student Union welcomes all students at Decatur High School and across FWPS who want to learn, celebrate, and connect.