Latinx Heritage Month
Each year, from September 15th through October 15th (and beyond!) Northern Light School honors and celebrates the countless contributions, powerful influence, and critical impact the Latinx community has on history, culture, and our country's achievements. We have put together an exciting month of Latinx presenters, vibrant performances, school art projects, a community Ofrenda, and more! Check out the dynamic lineup from Latinx Heritage Month 2025!
Ballet Folklórico with Ruth Correa
We had the joy of welcoming back our friend Ruth Correa for Morning Circle. Ruth, who was born in Zacatecas, Mexico and has been dancing since childhood, shared a
vibrant and inspiring Ballet Folklórico performance with our students, families, and staff.
Her performance featured the graceful, rhythmic footwork and colorful skirt movements that are signature to Ballet Folklórico. Dressed in traditional attire, Ruth filled the circle with energy and joy, blending music, dance, and storytelling to showcase the beauty of Mexican culture. Our students were captivated by the lively steps and vibrant spins, and many were eager to join in clapping along to the rhythms.
We are grateful to Ruth for sharing her artistry and culture with our community.
Brazilian Drumming with Marcus Odara
Our community was filled with rhythm and joy as we welcomed Brazilian drummer and teaching artist Marcos Odara to Northern Light School for a special Morning Circle celebration! Marcos brought incredible energy to the room, leading students through an interactive drumming tutorial and performance that had everyone moving to the beat.
Brazilian drumming—rooted in the rich musical traditions of Afro-Brazilian culture—is a powerful expression of rhythm, resilience, and community. The vibrant sounds of instruments like the surdo, tamborim, and agogô reflect Brazil’s deep connections to African, Indigenous, and Portuguese influences, creating a sound that unites people across generations and continents.
This performance was a highlight of our Latinx Heritage Month celebrations, reminding us how music can bridge cultures and honor the diverse histories that shape Latin America. By sharing rhythms born from joy, resistance, and togetherness, our students experienced firsthand the spirit of connection that lies at the heart of Latinx heritage.
Mariachi with Mariachi Reyes de la Bahia
Our community was treated to a lively and heart-filled performance by Mariachi Reyes de la Bahía. The group brought the vibrant
traditions of mariachi music to life, filling our courtyard with soaring harmonies, spirited rhythms, and the rich sounds of violins, trumpets, guitarrón, and vihuela.
As part of the celebration, our students enjoyed delicious conchas from Peña’s Bakery while dancing and enjoying the music. They also learned the names of the instruments, had a chance to ask the band questions, and gained a deeper appreciation for the artistry and tradition behind mariachi.
Mariachi music has deep roots in Mexico, dating back to the 18th century, and has long been a way to share stories of love, joy, struggle, and pride. Today, it remains an enduring symbol of Mexican identity and culture, uniting generations through song and celebration.
We feel so lucky to live in such a culturally rich area where our community has the opportunity to experience traditions and celebrations like this. Our students were captivated by the energy and passion of the performance, and it was a joyful way to honor Latinx Heritage Month.
Environmentalist José González
José González is an educator, artist, and conservationist whose work weaves together culture, community, and the environment. With training in both education and
natural resource conservation, José explores the intersections of science, art, and storytelling - using design, words, and imagery to help people engage with the world in meaningful ways.
A self-described “Green Chicano,” José brings a unique perspective to his work, blending his identity as an educator, environmentalist, and cultural advocate. He holds a B.A. in History, an M.S. in Natural Resources & Environment, a California Social Studies Single Subject Credential, and an Administrative Services Credential. Over the years, he has taught students of all ages, from elementary classrooms to the university level, in subjects ranging from science and language development to history, culture, and Spanish.
José is the founder and director emeritus of Latino Outdoors, as well as the Equity Office at the East Bay Regional Parks. His work centers on building connections between the environment and Latine/Chicano communities to strengthen education, conservation, and cultural understanding.
Oakland Ballet’s Luna Mexicana Brings Día de los Muertos to Life at Northern Light School
