Hispanic Heritage Month at Flour Bluff High School
Sophia Rojas, Photography Editor
September 14, 2025
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Photo by: Thinh Nguyen from Upsplash
From September 15 to October 15, the United States celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month—a time dedicated to honoring the history, culture, and contributions of Americans with roots in Spain, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
Originally established in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson as a week-long celebration, Hispanic Heritage Week was expanded to a full month in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan. Today, the month-long observance is an opportunity for all Americans to learn more about Hispanic cultures and the ways Hispanic communities have shaped our nation—through leadership, the arts, cuisine, music, education, and vital workforce roles.
At Flour Bluff High School, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect, celebrate, and share traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Mrs. Garza, cheer coach and educator, shared what the month means to her.
“I feel like Hispanic Heritage Month is the time to celebrate our culture,” she said. “We celebrate it all year long, but I feel like this month brings attention to our culture for all cultures to see how Hispanics celebrate.”
Garza also reflected on how her background influences her work in education.
“Hispanics are generally helping people, and being a teacher is a helping profession,” she added.
For many students, Hispanic Heritage Month is also about celebrating traditions with their families.
Alexa Monroy explained how her family honors their heritage:
Liza Garza and family celebrate Cinco De Mayo together as a family. Photo by: Unknown Stranger
“I spend time with my family practicing Mexican traditions—like going to mass and enjoying special foods during Day of the Dead,” she said. “Having a Hispanic background helped me with certain jobs because I can speak Spanish.”
Luis Gaitán, who is both Mexican and Venezuelan, said the month carries special meaning for him.
“It means a great deal to me because both my parents have different cultures,” Gaitán said. “The way we mix them—it’s very one of a kind.”
He added that his heritage motivates him to stay involved in school life.
“It pushes me to join clubs, express myself as a Latino, and represent my community,” he said.
Maria Julieta Brusco, another student at Flour Bluff, offered a heartfelt reflection:
“Hispanic Heritage Month reminds us to be proud of who we are and where we come from,” she said. “It’s about celebrating our roots and sharing our traditions with others.”
When asked how others can show support during this time, Mrs. Garza emphasized awareness and respect.
“Inform yourself. Know what is going on. Embrace the differences,” she said. “It’s important that we practice these beliefs all year, not just during our month—and be proud of where we come from.”
Hispanic Heritage Month reminds students and staff that culture is something to celebrate not just once a year, but every day.
As Gaitán put it best:
“Don’t be shy of your culture—whatever it is, just be a part of it.”
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