Hispanic Heritage Month Employee Spotlights

DeSoto ISD Celebrates the Culture and Contributions of its Employees of Hispanic or Latino Descent
Posted on 09/26/2022
Hispanic Heritage Month Employee Spotlight Graphic

The United States of America is known as a Melting Pot made up of immigrants who gathered to form a nation. Throughout the existence of the country, the myriad of cultures has been noted and integrated into the fabric of the country. From September 15- October 15, it is the nation's focus to celebrate the advancement, culture, and contributions of those of Hispanic and Latin descent across the nation. 


This year, the 2022 Hispanic Heritage Month Observance Theme is “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation” and focused on equity and diversity encouraging all people to ensure that all voices are represented and welcomed to help build stronger communities and a stronger nation.


Join us as we recognize and celebrate Hispanic voices and experiences in the DeSoto ISD school community.




Name:

Yesenia Watts



Position:

Spanish Teacher/LOTE Department Chair

Campus or Department:

DeSoto High School

Years Employed by DeSoto ISD:

2

Years of Service in the Field of Education:

4

What does the national celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage month goes beyond the Spanish language. It is a time for all ethnicities to reflect the historical, cultural, and even social influence that Hispanics bring to not only the United States but worldwide. This time of celebrations allow us to look back at the legacy of our ancestors and for us to continue the journey.

Why is it important for the Desoto ISD school community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

It's important that our DeSoto ISD school community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month so we can learn about and appreciate the diverse culture and heritage.

As an educator, what does it mean to be a reflection or representation of Hispanic culture in schools and the DeSoto ISD school community in which you serve?

Being Hispanic is something I am proud to be, and it brings much joy being able to teach my students the many different perspectives, broaden their ideas, but mainly to travel with me as we discuss and learn about the Spanish speaking countries.






Name

Catherine Chavez Fields

Position

Teacher

Campus or Department

Frank D Moates Elementary

Years in DeSoto ISD

16

Years in Education

23

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Why is it important for the Desoto ISD school community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

It is important for the Desoto ISD community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month because our students and the community, in general, would like to know more about Hispanics in our district, not only as employees but as role models.

What does it mean to you, as an educator, to be a reflection or representation of Hispanic culture in schools and the DeSoto ISD school community?

It means so much to be a positive role model for all students of Desoto ISD, not just bilingual students.  I enjoy teaching my students about the culture of New Mexico. I share items from my home state with them and some of my colleagues when I can.

In what ways do you encourage the celebration, recognition and inclusion of Hispanic heritage in your work and role as an educator?

I encourage my students to complete research projects on historical or modern Hispanic figures and share what they have learned with others.  This year, for the Frank Moates Hispanic Heritage Celebration, my students' projects will be on display for a gallery walk that other students, parents, and staff can enjoy and learn from.

What are a few ways to extend or incorporate the celebration, recognition and inclusion of Hispanic culture and accomplishments beyond Hispanic Heritage Month?

At the Frank Moates campus, music is played every morning during transition time. During Hispanic heritage month, our school counselor often plays Hispanic music for all students to enjoy. Information on the Hispanic culture is also incorporated during enrichment classes at the campus.





Name

Priscilla Torres



Position

First grade Bilingual Teacher

Campus or Department

Cockrell Hill

Years in DeSoto ISD

5

Years in Education

5

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

…To recognize the work and effort of past migrant generations who inspire others to achieve success.

Why is it important for the Desoto ISD school community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

…To celebrate our nation’s diversity.

What does it mean to you, as an educator, to be a reflection or representation of Hispanic culture in schools and the DeSoto ISD school community?

…To me, it means that I am here to serve all people.

In what ways do you encourage the celebration, recognition and inclusion of Hispanic heritage in your work and role as an educator?

I share my traditions and joys of being Hispanic with my students and coworkers.

What are a few ways to extend or incorporate the celebration, recognition, and inclusion of Hispanic culture and accomplishments beyond Hispanic Heritage Month?

…To always think about the language barriers between our community when preparing events to include everyone.