PCSD hosted its annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration today at the C.L. Overturf, Jr. District Center, bringing together students, educators, and community members to honor the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Hispanic community. This year’s celebration embraced the theme “Pioneers of Change – Shaping the Future,” celebrating both tradition and innovation.
The event began with a warm welcome from Donna Ramirez, PCSD ELL Support Leader, followed by opening remarks from Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency and School Board Member Holly Pickens.
Justin Campbell, PCSD Community Liaison, energetically introduced keynote speaker Jamie Viera, Program Development & Training Specialist at NEFEC, who delivered an engaging and thought-provoking keynote on the impact of Hispanic heritage in shaping communities and inspiring future leaders.
Students (Litzy Pecina, Aaron Jaramillo, Evelynn Jaramillo, Alaina Jaramillo, Maejor Padgett, Hadley Hoare, Harper Hoare, Joel Serrano-Santana, Christinique Johnson, Daleah Johnson) from Middleton-Burney Elementary School kicked off the student presentations with Highlights of Hispanic Culture, demonstrating the traditions, stories, and customs that define the Hispanic experience. Their performance included a Hispanic Heritage Traditional Fashion Show, where students proudly showcased vibrant cultural attire.
Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School students (Adriana Maciel, Caitlyn Chavez, Jade Servin, Gabriela Perez, Jasmine Perez, Joceline Sanchez, Jacqueline Sanchez, Jonathan Pena, Luis Mendoza, Bryan Balderas-Vazquez) performed a lively Mexican Dance, filling the stage with energy and rhythm.
Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School students (Frida Valdez, Jenny Duran-Santiago, Perla Lopez-Martinez) then presented the Quinceañera Fashion Show, honoring a cherished rite of passage in Hispanic culture. A photo slideshow highlighted the district’s Hispanic Heritage Month activities from 2024, celebrating the collective heritage and accomplishments of students and staff throughout PCSD.
The celebration concluded with remarks from the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Planning Committee (Donna Ramirez, Justin Campbell, Priscilla Perry, Madai Benitez, Lucy Montez, Sarajean McDaniel, Ashley McCool), recognizing the efforts of all participants, staff, and community supporters. Attendees then enjoyed a lunch in the District Center cafeteria, provided free for students.
This year’s celebration was a vibrant reminder of the importance of honoring diversity, embracing cultural traditions, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Special Thanks To: Christian Valdez- PALMERAS 2, Palatka; Nikki Hawthorne & PCSD Food Service Team; PCSD Transportation Department; PCSD Federal Programs Team
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