The Sierra Grande School District partnered with the Adams State University Migrant Education Program (MEP) to host a colorful Cinco de Mayo celebration followed by a Lectura en Familia (Family Literacy Night) on May 4, 2023.
Javier Gonzalez, high school Spanish teacher and multilingual learners director, and the Sierra Grande multilingual learners committee worked diligently to plan and implement a student and parent program in honor of Cinco de Mayo.
Gonzalez spent numerous hours teaching 24 students Folklorico dances to honor and celebrate Mexican culture. The dancers began practicing in January and included PreK students Ariel Gonzalez, Janae Gonzalez, Layla Hobbs; kindergarteners Yaretzy Gonzalez, Nicholas Hobbs, Valeria Martinez, Dayanara Cepeda Esquer, Cindy Sandoval, Dale Vigil; first graders Odalys Gonzalez, Andre Gonzalez, Zaine DeLeon; fourth graders Jayir Gonzalez, Daniel Gonzalez, Lazailo DeLeon, Serenity Wood, Lyla Gerardo; fifth graders Alaina Huerta, Areeya Gonzalez, Alondra Gonzalez, Branden Martinez, Michael Martinez; seventh grader Kayo DeLeon; and eight grader Bogar Quezada.
Gonzalez taught three dances from the region of Jalisco including El Gavilancillo, La Negra, and Machetes. “I want to keep the traditions alive and passed on to younger generations.” Adams State Semillas de La Tierra performed five dances including two from Nayarit: El Buey, Jarabe de Nayarit; and three from Aguascalientes: Las Deshiladoras, Viva Aguascalientes, La Pelea de Gallos.
The first MEP sponsored Lectura en Familia at Sierra Grande School included six teachers delivering literacy or art skills to the community. The teachers modeled and implemented the teaching strategies of gradual release model as well as hands-on activity through art engaging lessons. Dinner, prepared by the school cafeteria staff, was served to the participants. The meal honored Mexican culture and the menu featured posole with all the toppings; chips and salsa; horchata and tres leches.
Gonzalez appreciates everyone who made the event possible. “It takes a village.” He extends special thanks to the Master of Ceremonies Luis Murillo, assistant superintendent of Alamosa School District; and the sponsors: Migrant Education Program; Gregory Gorman Family and Cosmetic Dentistry; Silvia Martinez; and the Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center. “Without the support of everyone this event would not have been possible,” Gonzalez added.
