Spencerville Adventist Academy Celebrates Hispanic Heritage

Story by Nayeli Gonzalez, Second-Grade Teacher

Spencerville Adventist Academy (SAA) held its first-ever Hispanic Heritage celebration late last year. Salma Moretta, SAA’s Spanish teacher, organized and prepared the students for this special assembly. She had her students learn the Pledge of Allegiance in Spanish, taught them unique songs in Spanish, worked on colorful and artistic crafts with them and so much more! The students’ excitement grew as they discovered all the creative ways they would participate in this memorable assembly.

The program began with a lively flag parade carried by students as young as second grade, and participants through eighth grade joined in a beautiful assembly, rich with excitement, music and bold, colorful displays that filled the entire auditorium.

Two middle school student-emcees kept transitions smooth as they took turns introducing program segments in both Spanish and English. In Spanish, students proudly introduced famous Hispanic individuals who have contributed to the United States in diverse and impactful ways. Pre-K through second-grade students sang “Dios Es Amor” (God Is So Good), while third- through fifth-grade students sang the famous “Cielito Lindo” (Lovely Sweet One). The entire assembly finished with the fourth graders dancing “The Raspa,” a traditional Mexican dance in vibrant cultural attire.

Students were interviewed on stage about their favorite Hispanic foods, traditions and even the challenges they face when they switch between speaking English and Spanish. “I love my culture because we are so welcoming, and we bring people in no matter what,” said Josias Serrano, a seventh grader. When asked about her favorite holiday tradition, third-grader Lucy Rodriguez said, “We make alfajores and share what we are thankful for. It makes me feel special.” Students also presented different ways the Seventh-day Adventist message was brought to various Hispanic countries.

The school’s Dining Service director, Chef George Suggs, provided a delicious, authentic Hispanic meal, while Moretta served traditional drinks to each student. The celebration overflowed with joy, pride and excitement as the student body soaked in the rich gift of diversity that fills SAA’s hallways and classrooms.

This celebration program was a beautiful reminder of the diverse Hispanic heritage embedded within the lives of the school’s students, families and staff, say organizers.

When asked about the program, second-grade student Alexander Hernandez, says, “I loved it! It made me so proud of my culture!”

School administration thanks Moretta, elementary STEM coordinator Kim Terry, and all staff members who played an integral part in making this event an unforgettable moment at SAA.