Honoring Hispanic Heritage in the Classroom
Everyone benefits when we honor the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of all students.
Everyone benefits when we honor the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of all students.
We learn from what we see—and develop stories about the world from what we learn. These stories become our roadmaps to the possible.
In this way, teachers are always storytellers and world builders. They help shape the ways kids show up in the world by what they teach, how they teach, and who they are.
When the teachers and leaders in our schools reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of our communities—we learn that everyone can and should lead. And that’s a story we need more of these days.
As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize and uplift the influence of Hispanic educators in our communities—and call forward the next generation to continue that impact.
Hispanic educators have been pioneers in reimagining what schools can be—a legacy that stretches back decades and continues to this day.
In the 1950s, Dr. Antonia Pantoja, a trailblazer in bilingual and multicultural education, worked tirelessly to make sure Puerto Rican and Latino students in New York City had access to schools that honored their languages and cultures. Jaime Escalante, a Bolivian American math teacher, inspired national attention in the 1980s when his high school students in East Los Angeles excelled in advanced mathematics, challenging stereotypes about who could succeed.
And in countless classrooms across the country, educators like Jorge Luis Armenta, Dr. Madeline Negrón and Fabricio Velez help build school communities grounded in deep learning for all students, from all cultures.
These stories illustrate a powerful truth: when teaching reflects the cultural realities of the community, classrooms become centers of possibility, belonging, and achievement for all.
“Soy bilingüe. Es mi superpoder.” — Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent of Denver Public Schools
Today, nearly 30 percent of K–12 students in the United States are Hispanic or Latino, compared to about 9 percent of teachers. Additionally, more than 20 percent of students are bilingual, with Spanish being the most common second or first language. By contrast, less than 14 percent of public school teachers speak a second language.
Many educators of Hispanic heritage bring the gift of multilingualism, allowing them to connect across linguistic lines and validate the languages spoken in students’ homes. This doesn’t just help Spanish-speaking students; it also introduces non-Spanish speakers to new ways of thinking, broadening their worldview and expanding vocabularies, knowledge, and understanding.
As Dr. Marrero says, bilingualism is a superpower. In fact, broad cultural and linguistic representation in teaching benefits everyone. Students of all backgrounds gain when they experience classrooms led by educators who bring multiple languages, histories, and perspectives into the conversation. It deepens their understanding of the world, builds empathy, and prepares them for life in a multicultural society.
Schools are at their best when they reflect the people they serve. For young people of Hispanic heritage considering teaching, this is the opportunity: to step into a profession that doesn’t just prepare the next generation academically, but also builds stronger communities where everyone belongs.
Across the country, schools are seeking educators from a broad range of backgrounds and identities to ensure all students can see themselves reflected in the adult leaders around them.
At the same time, pathways into teaching are expanding. From streamlined bachelor’s degree programs to accelerated alternative certification programs, tailored scholarships, and “earn while you learn” initiatives, a teaching career is possible no matter where you’re starting. Innovative new programs like teaching apprenticeships even allow you to grow your career right in your community. Earn a degree and work in local schools while serving where you live.
Whether you’re in high school thinking about your future, in college exploring majors, or even considering a career change, teaching is an accessible and rewarding option.
If you feel inspired to explore teaching, here are a few steps you can take, including some tailored resources for future Latino and Hispanic educators:
From pioneers who fought for educational equity to everyday champions who guide students through challenges and triumphs, Hispanic teachers have shaped the landscape of education in profound ways.
Now, it’s time for the next generation to carry that torch forward. If you’re passionate about making a difference, teaching may be the perfect path. Your unique background and your personal story are not just strengths—they are exactly what our classrooms need.
By choosing teaching, you are choosing to inspire, to lead, and to empower countless students to dream bigger.
