For Native American Heritage Month, we welcomed a visiting student who shared her Navajo culture with our children. She taught the meaning behind her traditional attire, the purpose of each movement in her dance, and the history of her people—whose ancestors were among the first people of what is now Idaho.

To introduce students to another Native culture, we explored the traditions of the Hawaiian people. Students learned a traditional Hawaiian dance honoring their history and connection to the land. We brought traditional attire and instruments made from natural Hawaiian materials, allowing the children to see the craftsmanship, hear the sounds, and experience the vibrant storytelling behind the dances.

In preparation for Día de Muertos, we learned traditional dances to honor the elders of our community, recognizing their wisdom and resilience. Alongside the dances, we invited parents to bring photos of their loved ones who have passed and to share family stories—creating a heartfelt space for children to learn about and appreciate their ancestors.

We kicked off our BFH Program by celebrating Mexico’s Grito de Independencia. Many don’t know that Mexico’s Independence Day begins the night of September 15 and continues through the 16th. For Mexicanos, this celebration is deeply empowering—honoring our ancestors, our resilience after colonization, and the evolution of our traditions as a free people. Our students learned the traditional Grito de Dolores, the historic call that sparked Mexico’s fight for independence. They also learned the Mexican National Anthem and participated in a traditional flag-escort ceremony, allowing them to connect with their cultural identity through music, movement, and shared pride.