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DISD Kicks Off Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

13 Sep 2005


Dr. Jesús Carreón, Chancellor of DCCCD, Will Be the Keynote Speaker

DALLAS–The Dallas Independent School District will kick off this year's Hispanic Heritage Month observances with a special celebration at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, at the auditorium in the district's Administration Building, 3700 Ross Ave.
    
The theme is "Hispanics: Strong and Colorful Threads in the American Fabric."
    
The district's commemoration includes a presentation by Jesús Carreón, chancellor of the Dallas County Community College District and a leader in the Dallas Hispanic community.

    Carreón will talk about planning and preparing for college.  His presentation will cover the impact of demographic changes in the United States' workforce in the 21st century and how to prepare a globally competitive and diverse workforce.
    
Members of the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts Latin Music Ensemble will perform during the event.
    
Hispanic Heritage month is observed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.  The dates for the national celebration originally were chosen because several Latin American countries, whose immigrants make up the Hispanic community in the United States, celebrate their independence days around Sept. 15.
    
Below are some Hispanic Heritage month events in DISD schools:

·  North Dallas High School, 3120 N. Haskell Ave., will host a program Friday, Sept. 16, at 8 a.m., in the school's auditorium.  The program will include folklorico dance performances by students, Hispanic trivia and games.

·  Students and staff at Alex W. Spence Talented and Gifted Academy will host a Latino Festival Saturday, Oct. 8, from noon – 5 p.m.  The event will include food, entertainment, prizes and games.  The Latino Festival expands cultural awareness among the school's students and community.  It also provides an opportunity for parents to become involved in the school.  Special guests include Mariné Hernandez, entertainment reporter for Univision-Ch. 23, and Derek Castillo, sports anchor/reporter for NBC 5.  The school is located at 4001 Capitol Ave.