Students in Mr. Castillo’s Spanish classes recently brought language and culture together through a vibrant exploration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). As part of their unit on traditions and identity, students studied the holiday’s origins, key vocabulary, and cultural significance. They learned how families across Mexico honor their loved ones through symbolic practices such as offering food, displaying marigolds, and creating ofrendas—altars that celebrate the lives of those who have passed.
To deepen their understanding, students designed their own two-dimensional and three-dimensional altars, blending traditional elements with the creativity and artistry that define HSFI. Using photographs, papel picado, flowers, fashion-inspired embellishments, and meaningful objects, students curated displays that honored figures important to them while demonstrating their cultural knowledge. The project not only showcased their Spanish language learning, but also highlighted our students’ ability to connect global traditions with their own artistic expression.