Superintendent Juan Cruz had the opportunity to visit Dahl and Stonegate Elementary Schools for a special series of book readings with students. During each book reading, students discussed cultural traditions and engaged in fun activities related to the story being read by Superintendent Juan Cruz. The following books were read with students which centered around the national theme of the month, Hispanic Heritage. 

 

When Carmen Teresa receives a notebook as a holiday gift, the guests suggest she write down their own childhood stories, which they tell. But Carmen Teresa, who loves to cook, collects their family recipes instead!

With energy, sensitivity, and warmth, Lulu Delacre introduces readers to a symphony of colorful characters whose 9 stories dance through a year of Latin American holidays and customs. Countries include Mexico, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Guatamala and Peru.

This book is based on the life of Frida Kahlo and creates a playful, insightful tribute to one of the twentieth century's most influential artists.

 

Esperanza thought she'd always live with her family on their ranch in Mexico--she'd always have fancy dresses, a beautiful home, and servants. But a sudden tragedy forces Esperanza and Mama to flee to California during the Great Depression, and to settle in a camp for Mexican farm workers. Esperanza isn't ready for the hard labor, financial struggles, or lack of acceptance she now faces. When their new life is threatened, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances--Mama's life, and her own, depend on it.

 

In Papá and Me, a young boy and his papa may speak both Spanish and English, but the most important language they speak is the language of love between father and son. In this beautiful bilingual picture book, Arthur Dorros portrays the close bond between father and son.