L.A. School Board Honors Latine Heritage Month

LOS ANGELES, September 15, 2026 – The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education today celebrated the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of the Latino/a/e communities to public schools, communities across Los Angeles, and the entire country. The recognition comes amid ongoing federal attacks against immigrant communities across Los Angeles, which continues to have a real impact on schools and surrounding neighborhoods.

The resolution honoring Latine Heritage Month was authored by Board Member Kelly Gonez, which was cosponsored by Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin, Board Member Karla Griego, Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas, and Board President Scott Schmerelson. Students from Dr. Maya Angelou Community High School performed as part of the celebration.

“L.A. Unified celebrates our Latine students, families, and staff this month and every month,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez. “Even as the federal government continues to wage attacks against our Latine community and, in particular, our immigrant families, we celebrate our diversity, and we are committed to ensuring our schools are inclusive and welcoming for all races, languages, cultures, and without regard to immigration status.”

“Latino/a/e Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the history, culture, language, and traditions that are an integral part of Los Angeles Unified and our city,” Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. “Our Latino students, families, educators, and communities have shaped Los Angeles in countless ways, and their stories belong in our schools. We are proud to celebrate that heritage and the many contributions of the Latino community while ensuring every student sees their identity, culture and community reflected in their education.”

“Latino Heritage Month is one of the most celebrated events in the Los Angeles area and an expression of culture and identity,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “Los Angeles Unified prides itself on its diversity in all aspects, including students, families, and workforce. Our diversity is a strength, with people from different nationalities coming together to make up this district. Latino Heritage Month celebrates many nations, cultures, and languages, including Indigenous languages. I hope we can all come together to celebrate and learn more about them.”

"Our Latine students and families have shaped Los Angeles and continue to strengthen our schools every day," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. "We must not only celebrate our heritage, but protect our students, honor their histories and languages, and ensure every student can see themselves reflected and valued in our schools."

“Latino/a/e Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and contributions that strengthen our communities,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill. “In Los Angeles, that diversity includes the many nations and traditions that make up the broader Latino experience. We have a responsibility to ensure our students see their heritage reflected, respected, and celebrated in our schools.

“Latine Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of our Latino/a/e students, families, and communities,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin. “We are also proud to reaffirm that our campuses are welcoming and supportive places for every student, regardless of background or immigration status, and that every child has a home in our school communities.”

“As we celebrate Latine Heritage Month, we honor the culture, language, traditions, history, and contributions of our communities while recognizing the challenges many continue to face,” said Board Member Karla Griego. “This celebration is more than recognition, it is an affirmation of belonging, a commitment to solidarity, shared struggle, and a powerful act of resistance. Today, tomorrow, and always, we stand proudly with our Latine students, families, and communities.”

¡Orgullosamente soy Latina de todo corazón!” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin. “My heritage is a part of who I am, and I know how powerful and valuable it is for our young people to see their own cultures, histories, and stories honored and celebrated. This Latino/a/e Heritage Month, we celebrate the countless contributions and sacrifices of our Latine communities and the strength that has carried our families for generations. In moments when our communities experience uncertainty, we have a greater responsibility to stand together, celebrate our roots, and ensure our students know their history and stories belong in our communities.”