José M. Hernández’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and the power of dreams. From growing up as a migrant farmworker to becoming one of NASA's few Hispanic astronauts, his journey is a true inspiration to students of all ages. His story has been brought to life in the film "A Million Miles Away," which is a perfect educational tool for teachers to inspire their students in a bilingual or multicultural classroom setting. In this blog post, we’ll explore who José M. Hernández is, discuss key themes from the movie, and provide activities that teachers can use to engage students with his story. Who is José M. Hernández? José M. Hernández was born in French Camp, California, to Mexican immigrant parents. Growing up, his family frequently moved between the U.S. and Mexico due to the nature of their farm labor work. This constant mobility made school difficult for young José, but his passion for math and science drove him to excel despite the challenges. At 12, José l...
What is Hispanic Heritage Month? Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15 each year in the United States, is a time to recognize and honor the rich culture, history, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. It is a month-long celebration of the diverse backgrounds and traditions of people from 21 Spanish-speaking countries, spanning from Central and South America to Spain and the Caribbean. This celebration traces its origins back to 1968, when it began as a week-long event under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan extended it to a full month, allowing more time to appreciate the achievements and cultural influence of Hispanic Americans. Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of this community but also a vibrant opportunity to immerse in the food, music, dance, art, and heritage that make up this vital part of American society. Why September 15? The start of Hispanic Heritage M...