Several schools across Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools honored Hispanic Heritage Month with meaningful celebrations that highlighted the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Hispanic community.

On Thursday, October 9, leaders at Noble Prentis Elementary School held its annual holiday parade on the school’s playground.

Dozens of students, proudly dressed in their best cultural outfits representing countries like Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and Panama, paraded around the playground as their classmates watched and celebrated the rich diversity on display.

The school also held a live dance performance by a folklore group from Mexico.

The event was a total team effort. Many of the parents helped with planning the event.

“It’s important to embrace, love, and always know your roots,” shared parent Lori Whisler. “It makes me feel proud. And I love that the kids also feel proud. I hope that they keep it going for generations.”

Later that same day, Eisenhower Middle School held a celebration in the school’s gymnasium. 

Students heard from Real Estate Developer and Fitness Guru Helen Ortiz-Turley, who offered them words of wisdom and encouragement.

Ortiz-Turley shared the struggles she faced earlier in her life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and never giving up. “Heritage is not just about where you come from, it’s also about what you carry forward with you in life,” added Ortiz-Turley.

KCKPS School Board President Randy Lopez also addressed the students, offering words of encouragement and emphasizing that every student in the gym mattered.

The celebration culminated with a dance performance by an electrifying group called Grupo Folklórico Izcalli.

Students ended their day with frozen treats, provided by Miss Ortiz-Turley.

On Thursday, October 15, Carl B. Bruce Middle School held its first annual Hispanic Heritage talent show.

Close to a dozen acts performed in the school’s gymnasium. The night ended with lots of delicious food for guests.

Rosedale Middle School also held a giant celebration.

Their program featured students watching a video that explained Hispanic Heritage Month.

It highlighted the history, culture, and contributions made by people with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Carribbean, Central and South America.

The celebration featured a fashion show that displayed the merging of style and culture. 

Tzin Tzun Clothing was founded in 2019 by Lupita Vargas, who carries her memories as a migrant and the traditions of her roots through the clothing she selects from Latin America.

Vargas brought five original pieces from her collection to Rosedale for five 5 students to model.

The beautiful outfits were all handmade in Mexico by women artisans who still use the same weaving and embroidery techniques that have been passed down for hundreds of years.

The program ended with the Rosedale Middle School Mariachi Band performing.