KIPP Academy closes Hispanic Heritage Month to the rhythm of the mambo

KIPP Academy elementary charter school in The Bronx is closing Hispanic Heritage Month with the satisfaction of having covered a very broad agenda, which has integrated its students into an “inclusive” plan and which constantly involves them with the immense cultural diversity that characterizes the Big Apple.

“This month we are preparing very interesting activities on Hispanicity. That makes us proud considering the large immigrant community and children of Latino immigrants that we have in our classrooms”, highlighted Genesis Vallegos of the governing body of this institution.

This teacher who was academically trained at KIPP, highlights that this October 12 will culminate this commemoration with a special activity, dedicated to the mambo, which will be open to parents and representatives.

In previous years, events linked to other Latin rhythms had been held, such as Argentine tango, Dominican bachata, Puerto Rican salsa, but in this 2022 edition, the protagonist will be this Cuban rhythm.

“This month our students have had access to learn about leading figures in our community such as Sonia Sotomayor, by artists like Pablo Picasso and Frida Kahlo. It is a holistic approach that allows us to bring many back to their roots. and others to know our culture”indicated Vallegos, of Ecuadorian parents.

Kipp is part of a national network of public autonomous schools with elementary, middle and high schools in 18 locations distributed throughout the South Bronx, Harlem, Brooklyn and Upper Manhattan.

a view of the world

In accordance with the philosophy of this network, students are accompanied throughout the process to choose and prepare for the professional path. To do this, they have developed partnerships with more than 90 colleges and universities who are committed to helping more students persevere through graduation.

Nationwide, KIPP alumni finish college about four times the national average if contrasted with groups of students in similar economic contexts, they claim some records from their web site.

“This type of programming, where we put students first, allows us to offer you a more comprehensive view of the world. Of course, in our approach we not only celebrate Hispanicity, we also do the same with the African American, Asian and Jewish culture. We are excited to have closed this month with activities where we celebrate inclusion”, concluded Vallegos.