The holidays were a time of joy and coming together through many events for the Spanish Lake Elementary family. Students were made aware of Miami’s diverse cultural population with knowledge, respect, and interest.
The spreading of holiday spirit was kicked off by coordinator Sergeant Wendy Heller from the Miami-Dade Police Department who spearheaded The Holiday Toy Drive. Grisell Gajano, guidance counselor, also started the Holiday Food-Drive. The students’ hearts were filled with joy through the gift of giving.
Academically, students experienced a successful Science Fair Night with new and innovative blue ribbon science fair projects.
Reading Under the Stars gave students an opportunity to explore reading activities outside during the evening with family and friends. Mercy Sabates, media-specialist, had the most popular new booth that had Scholastic books set up along with a BOGO sale.
The month of December opened with the kindergarten Winter Show. Each of the 12 kindergarten classes performed through singing as well as dancing numbers while dressed in their holiday best. With students performing in their shining moment, families learned the true meaning of the holidays.
The celebrations ended with a three-day run of the spectacular Chorus Holiday Show under the direction of the three SLE music teachers – Jackson Bunn, Diana Gonzalez, and Elizabeth Vazquez. The program effectively incorporated the exploration of multicultural traditions, world history, various languages and the usage of rhythm instruments, recorders, voice, and body movement. By the end of the show, everyone was on their feet giving a standing ovation.