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| Justin F. Kimball High School Cinco de Mayo celebration |
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| 5th Annual Cinco de Mayo Food Festival |
Cinco de Mayo is observed in the United States and regionally in Mexico, primarily in Puebla to celebrate Mexican heritage and pride. The day also commemorates the cause of freedom and democracy during the first years of the American Civil War.
An annual event for Kimball Knights, this 2012 Cinco De Mayo celebration began with a pre-dawn live broadcast from the school. By Noon, several news stations and reporters were there to capture the activities, bursting with colorful decorations and a festival of food dishes homemade by student families.
Media Center Director Teresa Anderson had positioned books and tables to help students transform the library into a mini-center of Mexican culture. Adding to the atmosphere, several teachers and staff together with student hosts wore authentic Mexican garments, jewelry and hair pieces. In addition to students' exposure to history, art and customs, Mexican music and dance enriched the experience with ballet folklorico and mariachi demonstrations.
There will be no standardized tests on today's lessons on teamwork, respect, communication, creativity, self-discipline, personal development, ...among others. Nor will these lessons be a factor in school ratings for Kimball. However, I am certain that this day of teaching and learning will go farther than high-stakes standardized tests do in helping the students to become responsible, successful citizens.
Congratulations to Spanish teacher Carmen Carrillo and English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher Lisa Aguilar for coordinating the event.
Thank you, Principal Earl Jones, administrative team, faculty and staff for supporting and contributing to a nourishing, wholesome school day.
Justin F. Kimball High School Knights will have memories of the annual Cinco de Mayo celebration!
