THORNTON, CA (MPG) - New Hope Elementary School turned its blacktop into a celebration of culture Tuesday, May 5 as students participated in traditional Mexican school customs and dances during the campus’ annual Cinco de Mayo observance.

 

The Cinco de Mayo program at New Hope Elementary featured several cultural dances, including Jarabe Tapatío, a traditional Mexican folk dance, and El Baile de los Mariachis, or the dance of the mariachis.

Parents, family members and community members gathered to watch students perform the routines they practiced for months. The program featured several cultural dances including Jarabe Tapatío, a traditional Mexican folk dance, and El Baile de los Mariachis, or the dance of the mariachis, both performed in front of a supportive audience.

The celebration began with “Honores a la Bandera,” or Honors to the Flag, a morning ceremony commonly held on Mondays in schools in Mexico in which the national flag is formally presented and honored.

Student flag guards known as the “escolta” carried the flag in formation before their classmates as they marched to the beat of drums played by student members of the “Banda de Guerra,” or war band. The singing of the “Himno Nacional Mexicano,” the national anthem of Mexico, followed.

After the anthem, student Heber Castro recited the flag oath in Spanish, adding another cultural tradition commonly observed by students in Mexico to the Cinco de Mayo program.

Before the performances began, New Hope Elementary Principal and district superintendent Dr. Khushwinder Gill addressed attendees and spoke about the meaning of Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates the Mexican Army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla.

“It was not a battle of great armies,” Gill said. “It was a battle of heart.”

 

New Hope Elementary Principal and district superintendent Dr. Khushwinder Gill is pictured delivering remarks on the meaning of Cinco de Mayo and its significance to the school community during the celebration.

Gill also thanked families, staff and former students in attendance for their continued support of the annual event, noting the importance of cultural celebration within the school community.

“Your traditions make our school better, more beautiful and more passionate,” Gill added.

The May 5 event highlighted students’ dedication in preparing for their performances while showcasing their cultural pride, bringing the campus and neighbors together for a day centered on celebrating Mexican heritage.