Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the United States each year from September 15 to October 15. It honors the histories, cultures and contributions of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

Why it starts in the middle of the month

September 15 is the independence anniversary of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18. The observance began as a week in 1968 and was expanded to a full month in 1988.

Why a collaborative bulletin board?

A shared display turns learning into something the whole class builds together. Every student adds a piece, and the finished board becomes a conversation starter for families and visitors. Collaborative posters also work well across ages and abilities, because each piece can be simple on its own.

Ideas to make it meaningful

  • Start with a read-aloud or a short lesson about a person, place or tradition, then connect each student’s piece to what they learned.
  • Invite students to share family traditions, foods, music or words from home, only if they want to.
  • Include a map so students can find the countries you discuss.
  • Highlight a range of people: artists, scientists, athletes, authors and community helpers.
  • Add short captions so visitors learn something from the display.

Keep it respectful and accurate

  • Avoid costumes and stereotypes. Focus on real people, places and contributions.
  • Remember that Hispanic and Latino communities are diverse, with many countries, languages and traditions.
  • Use trustworthy sources, such as museums and libraries, when you research.

Extend the learning

Keep the conversation going after the board goes up: add a fact of the day, read books by Hispanic and Latino authors, and invite students to present their piece to a partner or another class.

Ready-to-use display

For a ready-to-use display, our Hispanic Heritage Month Bulletin Board: Collaborative Poster Activities is available on Teachers Pay Teachers.