May 16, 2024 – On Friday, May 10th, North Hills Elementary School was abuzz with excitement as teachers eagerly anticipated a special luncheon, courtesy of the ESL Department and Hispanic parents. In a heartwarming display of community spirit, over 20 parents from the Spanish-speaking community stepped up to organize and host a memorable event to honor the teachers who dedicate themselves to serving their students day in and day out.
Despite language barriers, these mothers poured their hearts into every aspect of the luncheon. From contributing cash, drinks, and homemade dishes representing their diverse cultures to crafting handmade decorations and providing prizes, their efforts transformed the venue into a space of elegance and relaxation for the teachers.
What's truly remarkable is that English fluency was not a prerequisite for these mothers to showcase their skills and passion. They brought along their youngest children, eagerly pitching in to set up, serve, and clean up after the event, demonstrating their unwavering support for the school and its staff.
Even as May 10th coincided with Mexican Mother's Day, these mothers selflessly dedicated themselves to creating a collective celebration for all. Their actions speak volumes about their desire to contribute to the school community, even when they may have initially felt unsure of their place due to language barriers.
As the luncheon drew to a close, the mothers joined the ESL teachers to eat together in a moment of camaraderie, discussing ways to overcome language barriers and further enrich the school's environment. Their resourcefulness was evident when one mother invited a friend whose child is at another school to support by cooking for the event, ensuring an abundance of food for everyone present.
Many of these remarkable mothers run their own businesses within the Winston-Salem community, offering a diverse range of services from all-natural body products to mobile fruit bars, cleaning services, makeup, and therapeutic care, all conducted in Spanish. Their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to their craft are testaments to their resilience and determination.
Moved by the outpouring of support from the Hispanic community, ESL Teacher Yamile McBride expressed excitement about tapping into their collective talents in the upcoming year. Recognizing the value of their contributions beyond language proficiency, the mothers have committed to meeting regularly to explore ways they can support the school, including addressing discipline issues and boosting student academic performance.
For parents like Yessica Burgos, who once served as a Special Education teacher in Mexico and who started her own business in the United States because of her limited English proficiency, involvement in their children's education is paramount. By leveraging their unique gifts and cultural backgrounds, these parents aim to inspire their children to excel academically and become actively engaged in their school community.
The story of the Hispanic mothers serving the Teachers they honor so much at North Hills Elementary is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to their children's education. Their example serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions that immigrant communities make to our schools and society as a whole. As we reflect on their journey, let us be inspired to offer our support and encouragement, knowing that together, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant community for all.
Submitted by ESL Teacher Yamile McBride, North Hills Elementary School