Kindergartners in the Washougal School District’s new dual-language classrooms are celebrating National Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month through Oct. 15.
On Sept. 15, pupils created Costa Rican and Mexican flags, viewed animated videos about how Costa Rica and Mexico won their independence, danced and twirled in a traditional “gola” (skirt), and took part their own version of the “independence torch pass,” an annual activity that commemorates Central American countries’ 1821 proclamation of independence from Spain.
“Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month gives students the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the history and countless contributions that people from Latin American nations have made,” teacher Kelly Borquist said.
The Washougal School District began its dual language program at the start of the 2021-22 school year.
“Children are most receptive to learning a new language at a young age and doing so helps them gain confidence, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills,” Borquist said. “Learning another language will provide students with greater college and career opportunities in a rapidly diversifying world.”