Ritenour Community Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Ritenour School District joins communities across the U.S. in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This annual celebration holds special significance for our district, as about 33% of Ritenour students identify as Hispanic.

Ritenour’s celebration recognizes the cultures and traditions represented by students and families from Mexico, Central America and South America. 

Hispanic Heritage Month's roots trace back to 1968 when it began as a week-long observance. In 1988, it expanded to a full month, recognizing the independence days of several Latin American countries and Mexico's historic Cry of Dolores on Sept. 15, 1810.

Students in all Ritenour schools are working on learning projects, activities, or special family events that celebrate Hispanic trailblazers who have impacted American history, as well as Latin American music, dance, art, cuisine and other cultural activities.

Here’s a peek at what some Ritenour schools are doing during this month-long celebration:

• Ritenour Middle School kicked off the 2026 Hispanic Heritage Month celebration with a visit from award-winning Mexican-American author and illustrator, Pedro Martin on Sept. 14. Martin inspired a group of 100 seventh-graders about writing Mexikid: A Graphic Memoir. 

• Marvin Elementary faculty enjoyed a homemade, authentic Hispanic luncheon prepared by staff members Michelle Gonzalez and Leslie Morales that included flautas, rice, guacamole, sopa de fideo, queso dip, pulled pork, flan, churro cheesecake and agua de Jamaica. Students, families and staff will celebrate the month with a special Lotería game night.
• Iveland and Marion elementary schools are planning Hispanic Heritage Celebration Nights for their families.  
• Buder Elementary’s third-graders are performing a Hispanic concert for students and families.