Atlanta Public Schools celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. It’s a celebration recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans who have inspired others to break barriers and achieve success. Latinos have a positive influence on our country through a strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service enhancing and shaping our national character. This vibrant community brings with it centuries-old traditions reflecting the multiethnic and multicultural customs of more than 20 different countries. Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it gives us the opportunity to acquire knowledge about their traditions, culture, background, and how Latinos enrich our nation and society.Â
“The roots of Hispanic culture run deep at APS! I am happy we have this opportunity to shine a brighter light on the many examples of strength and influence in your history. Together, we are ensuring a stronger community, and stronger, more welcoming schools across our district. I stand unida contigo as we write new stories of achievement for generations of APS Hispanic families.“
–Dr. Lisa Herring, Superintendent Atlanta Public Schools
At APS, approximately 8% of students and 2.5% of staff identify as Hispanic/Latino/Latinx. APS schools will observe Hispanic Heritage Month through different learning activities and engaging lessons incorporating art, STEM, culture, and language. Some schools will prepare trivia, play games, share food, and read books written by Latinx authors or about the contributions of Latinos.
You can meet some APS graduates that share Latino heritage, like the Class of 2022 Valedictorian of Benjamin E. Mays High School, Antoni Juarez. Antoni was awarded more than 3 million dollars in scholarships by different institutions. He currently attends Georgia Tech and plans to major in engineering.
Class of 2022 grad, Nayara Martiato Garcia, was the Senior Spotlight student at South Atlanta. You can see her interview here.
Yamcel Matos Clemente graduated from Mays High School in 2022. He was chosen to be featured in the Senior Spotlight series.
