I wish my Latine students felt as special as the way I view them. In my eyes, I see superheroes, with superpowers of code-switching and seamlessly floating in and out of conversations in two languages. And yet, many of them don’t want to speak Spanish at home anymore and unless prompted, they don’t mention that they speak two languages. I notice there’s a lack of self-confidence and pride in their eyes and in their identities. They are sensitive to being thought of as “other” or “different” when really they are fortunate to harbor multiple identities. But sadly, these super powers aren't something they feel super about, and unfortunately, it’s a tale as old as time.

I am happy to see that Hispanic Heritage Month is becoming more and more popular in and outside of the classroom, and that representation is the best it’s ever been, but we know it’s all far from perfect. I want to help. I am trying to combat these shortfalls in my own community by creating a “buddies club” for Hispanic high school students to connect and bond with younger Hispanic students. It’s my hope that the high school students will become more confident and responsible as they connect with their young buddies and that the high schoolers’ newfound confidence might rub off on their young peers. As the younger kids bond with their “big-kid” buddies, it is my hope that they would view their buddies as role models for many reasons, but largely because the older kids can relate to them on an identity level. And being that both “big” and “little” buddies are learning from one another, I hope they will see that there is not only a place for them in society, but that they can all shine together and develop a better sense of pride in their generation that welcomes and combines cultures instead of stifling them. It’s idealistic and nothing revolutionary, but I know that as humans, we all want to connect with our in-groups, and this would naturally create that opportunity for our Latine students to find their wings.

In the meantime, I am also taking care to highlight my Latine students in a way that doesn’t make them feel spotlighted, but does make them feel seen. For instance, I encourage them to help their peers during Spanish and I complement their knowledge of two languages; I take interest in their backgrounds and identities and I give them positive feedback whenever I can. Again, this is nothing brand new, but I think it’s an important start. Change is in the hands of the educators and I plan to leave a legacy of positivity, kindness and open-mindedness for my students. I hope that this legacy encourages my students to not only find themselves and use their super powers, but to do so with pride in their eyes and in their souls.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month to all! If there is anyone with any further knowledge of a program like the one I am trying to create, please let me know!