National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) recognizes the contributions made and the important presence of Hispanics to the United States by celebrating their heritage and culture.

Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multiethnic and multicultural customs of their communities.

Hispanic Heritage Month, whose roots go back to 1968, begins each year on September 15, the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile, and Belize also celebrate their independence days during this period and Columbus Day (Día de la Raza) is October 12.

The term Hispanic or Latino, refers to Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin regardless of race. On the 2010 Census form, people of Spanish, Hispanic and/or Latino origin could identify themselves as Mexican, Mexican American, Chicano, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or "another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin."

Today, 57.5 million people or 18% of the American population are of Hispanic or Latino origin. This represents a significant increase from 2000, which registered the Hispanic population at 35.3 million or 13% of the total U.S. population.  Here at Long Reach, we have almost 400 students who identify as Hispanic American. Let’s recognize the contributions of this segment of our community by celebrating the generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

Every Friday till October 15, we will have Latino music during all Lunches and Spirit Days to dress up & show your Pride & support of  the Hispanic culture!