Stratford School Altadena Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a Fiesta and Invites Families to Visit during Fall Open House on Saturday, October 24!

Stratford School Altadena, known for its STEAM-driven curriculum, is also proud of its robust world language programs, including Spanish and Mandarin pathways from Early Preschool through 8th grade. Students practice speaking, writing, and reading in their world language and learn about the depth and diversity of Spanish- and Mandarin-speaking countries and cultures.

Last week, the Stratford Altadena campus capped off Hispanic Heritage Month with a week-long celebration, with classrooms buzzing with activities and events honoring Spanish and Latin cultures and practices around the world. In one activity, fifth-grade students read aloud the book “Paletero Man” to Early Preschool students, followed by a paleta cart for frozen treats.

At the end of the week, the entire Stratford community came together for a festive Hispanic Heritage Fiesta featuring delicious Mexican food, live Mariachi music, and Folklorico dancers. Special student performances included 5th- and 6th-graders performing the song “Dos Oruguitas” from Disney’s Encanto. Led by Spanish teachers Señora McKenna and Mrs. Estrada, the fiesta was such a success that it will now be an annual tradition.

The Preschool through Kindergarten Mandarin Bilingual classrooms and Elementary Mandarin specialty language classes also participated in last month’s Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations. Students joined in holiday traditions, including making lanterns, cooking dumplings, and sharing cultural stories.

Another annual tradition at Stratford Altadena is giving back and contributing to the community. This year, during November and December, Stratford students will run a holiday food drive for Friends in Deed and will bake 100 dozen cookies for The Elizabeth House. Through the Stratford Cares program, students lead community giving efforts, allowing them to make a difference and take an active role in the future of the world they live in. The Stratford Altadena campus will also hold a Fall Festival for families with games, a petting zoo, pumpkin decorating, and more.

Ready to learn more about Stratford School’s Early Preschool through Middle School programs? Families are invited to explore Stratford School Altadena during their Open House this Saturday, October 24, from 9 AM to 1 PM. RSVP at StratfordSchools.com/Open-House or email tours@stratfordschools.com to register for your appointment time.