SAY HELLO TO OUR NEW CULTURAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

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By Katie Lewis

The diversity at North Hi Mount is a beautiful thing, naturally teaching our children empathy for other families, cultures, and life experiences. That’s something they’ll all carry with them long after leaving this school. But wouldn’t it be a missed opportunity to let it stop there?


REPRESENTATION MATTERS

The PTA’s new Cultural Enrichment Committee (CEC) is designed to increase awareness of the literature, art, and history of underrepresented cultures in our society. We want to make a space where students can see themselves and their families mirrored in the subjects. A space where kids can get to know cultures different from their own. We want to provide, with great respect and sensitivity, age-appropriate ways to celebrate cultures, diversity, and equity all year long. 


In practice, what that means is fun monthly events for students and families, often with participation from local organizations. So far this year, we’ve learned about Dia de los Muertos from Artes de la Rosa, screened Coco for Family Movie Night, and celebrated Native American Heritage Month together.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

You may have already noticed the CEC popping up on NHM social media, GroupMe, or Dr. Blanchard’s Smore emails. Each month we’ll send out a graphic with notable names, holidays, and historical dates for you to share and discuss with your children. You’ll also find posts about monthly events along with a sign-up link. Pro tip: We always have cool prizes for the first handful of people who register. Don’t miss out!

  • Mark your calendars: Our virtual CEC activity for December is all about Kwanzaa. The Dock Bookshop, a NHM family-owned African American book store, has partnered with us to explain the history and meaning of Kwanzaa, read a story, and show kids how to create a Kinara with their handprints. December 17 @ 5:30pm. RSVP here.

  • We also have a special, parents-only option this month. Join us for an Anti-Racist Parenting Zoom, with guest presenter Dr. Ranita Cheruvu of UNT, discussing what it means to be an anti-racist parent of young children. December 14 @ 6pm. RSVP here.

Many thanks to Joanna Hudspeth for being the driving force behind this important new program. Cultural Enrichment Committee events are open to ALL. And if you’re interested in getting involved, reach out through GroupMe or any social channel, and we’ll welcome you with open arms (virtually, of course). Hope to see you at the next one!

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