WEST ORANGE, NJ - As Hispanic Heritage Month drew to a close, Redwood Elementary celebrated with lively dance performances, student projects, and books, allowing families to enjoy the annual Scholastic Book Fair and more at their Hispanic Heritage and Literacy Night on Oct. 10.

Alborado Dance Company, well-known in New Jersey for its Flamenco and Spanish interpretations, performed several colorful and exciting dances for an enthusiastic audience of parents and students. Organized by the Diverseity, Equity, and Access Committee including third grade teacher Jessica Lee and paraprofessional Aicha Sylla ( who speaks five languages), Spanish teacher Wendy Paul and the Redwood PTA,  the event also provided families with the opportunity to shop at the Scholastic Book Fair and view Hispanic Heritage student projects.

Principal Kimya Jackson read Hispanic-themed books to students and Pamela Beardslee Alfaro of Puras Paletas was on hand to distribute fruit pops, along with her children, who attend(ed) Redwood.

"This was fun!" said fifth-grade student Kevin Dougherty, who assisted with the evening's events.

SEE ALL THE PHOTOS FROM REDWOOD'S HISPANIC HERITAGE AND LITERACY NIGHT HERE.

 Jessica Lee and Aicha Sylla

Dancer

Parents and students interact with dancers

Jessica Lee, Aicha Sylla, performers, Principal Kimya Jackson

Student projects