Grand Rapids Public Schools

GRPS Announces Hispanic Heritage Month Activities

Grand Rapids Public Schools' English Language Learner (ELL) and Migrant Department is hosting several events, including a visit from an award winning author, to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. National Hispanic Heritage Month takes place from September 15-October 15 and is an annual celebration of the history and culture of Hispanic Americans.

On October 4 and 5, 2012, award winning bilingual author Duncan Tonatiuh will visit four classrooms at Harrison Park and Burton Elementary to read his books Dear Primo: A Letter to My Cousin, which explains life in Mexico versus life in the United States through a series of letters between cousins, and the biography Diego Rivera: His World and Ours. Dear Primo received an honorable mention from the Pura Belpré Committee, was recognized as an America's Award Commended Title, named on the Notable Book for a Global Society list, and chosen as one of the best books of 2010 by Kirkus Reviews and the Chicago Public Library. Diego Rivera is the winner of both the 2012 Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children's Book Award and the 2012 Pura Belpré illustration award.

Also on October 4, 2012, families are invited to meet Mr. Tonatiuh and learn about his work and message. The event is from 6:00-8:00pm at Burton Elementary. A light dinner and childcare will be provided. RSVP to Sandra Pena at 819-2129.

The final event for Hispanic Heritage Month will be a presentation for parents by bilingual parent educator Lea Tobar. She will present on the importance of being bilingual and biliterate. Her presentation will take place at Burton Elementary from 6:00-8:00pm on Thursday, October 18, 2012. A light dinner and childcare will also be provided for this event. RSVP to Sandra Pena at 819-2129.