Roosevelt School District Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month Across Its Schools

ROOSEVELT, NEW YORK (October 2026)—Schools throughout the Roosevelt School District
celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month with classroom lessons, activities, and special events
honoring the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.

In Roosevelt, Hispanic Heritage Month, which is observed every year across the country from September
15 to October 15, provided opportunities for students across all five district schools—Roosevelt High
School, Roosevelt Middle School, Ulysses Byas Elementary School, Washington Rose Elementary
School, and Centennial Avenue Elementary School—to embrace and explore Hispanic and Latino
cultural traditions and recognize influential figures.

One highlight this year was Roosevelt High School's ceremony on October 29, themed "Somos: Our
Stories, Our Culture, Our Future." The evening brought together students, staff, Board of Education
trustees, and community members for a vibrant celebration of history and culture.

Superintendent Dr. Shawn Wightman and Roosevelt High School Principal Keith Saunders welcomed
attendees before an evening of performances and presentations showcasing the talents and cultural pride
of Roosevelt students. The program featured performances by the RHS Chamber Strings and Select
Choir, a senior dance class presentation, and energetic cultural dance performances filled with vibrant
colors and music.

Guests also heard from motivational speaker Kelly Ureña, first vice president of the Long Island Latino
Teachers Association (LILTA), who shared remarks highlighting the importance of identity, culture, and
community. The event was made possible through the efforts of numerous staff members and the district's
English as a New Language (ENL), World Language, music, and art departments, as well as the Art Club
and student performers.

At the elementary level, students participated in classroom lessons and activities designed to introduce
them to Hispanic and Latino history and influential figures. Washington Rose Elementary School, for
example, hosted a Hispanic Heritage Month Spirit Week, which included Famous Hispanic Person Day.
Students dressed as influential Hispanic figures, recognizing their accomplishments and the lasting impact
they have made across various fields. Through these schoolwide celebrations, Roosevelt students had
opportunities to learn about different cultures, recognize the diversity within their own community, and
appreciate the stories and traditions that help shape it.

To learn more about the Roosevelt Union Free School District, please visit the District's website at rooseveltufsd.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at facebook.com/RooseveltUFSD.

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