One story in particular caught the attention of the Colorado Department of Education, who turned its lens on Westminster High School and its prestigious Mariachi Ensemble. Now the entire state can learn about the district’s support of culturally relevant programming.

At the high school’s recent homecoming pep rally, CDE spent the day talking with students, staff, and Board of Education member Audrey Yanos to learn more. Their video can be seen below. 

The official celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 through October 15, but the district is committed to acknowledging the many contributions of Latino/a/x students and staff all year round. 

Parents of all backgrounds from the Early Learning Center at F.M. Day are telling What’s Up WPS how pleased they are that the school is incorporating basic Spanish language skills in their early learning program. “My son comes home singing Spanish songs and is excited to share new words he learned in Spanish class,” said Cas Strother. “The program gives him exposure to different cultures and languages.”

Parent Alison Bodziner feels the same way. “I appreciate that my daughter gets to have exposure to a second language from a young age. This will make a difference when she’s older and wants to continue studying Spanish because she will have a foundation already,” she said. 

Yet another example is a special visit later this month from author and artist Raúl the Third. Sherrelwood Elementary Library Media Technician Stephanae Gutierrez-McKain worked with the non-profit Book to Kids to bring the award-winning Mexican-American author to the school.