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The Farmington I.D.E.A.

The Farmington I.D.E.A.

Welcome. This space is for YOU!

Welcome to the 2023-24 IDEA Newsletter where you will find a place of belonging, inspiration, information, and a space for your contributions…

September Monthly Celebrations and Recognitions

  • September 4 Labor Day

  • September 6 Arbaeen
  • September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance
  • September 12 Ethiopian New Year
  • September 15 to October 15 National Hispanic/ Latinx Heritage Month
  • September 15 to September 17 Rosh Hashanah
  • September 16 Mexican Independence Day
  • September 17 Constitution Day
  • September 22 Native American Day
  • September 23 Autumnal Equinox
  • September 24 to 25 Yom Kippur
  • September 26 to 27 Mawlid al-Nabi
  • September 29 to October 6 Sukkot
  • September 29 to October 14 Pitru Paksha

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month, often referred to as Latinx Heritage Month, is a significant and vital celebration that highlights the rich and diverse contributions of Latinx individuals to the fabric of American society. This annual observance, spanning from September 15th to October 15th, serves as a platform to recognize the cultural, historical, and social impact of Latinos in the United States. It is a time to honor the achievements and resilience of Latinx communities, as well as promote greater understanding and appreciation of their heritage.


Hispanic Heritage Month fosters unity and inclusivity by embracing the myriad of traditions, languages, and experiences within the Latinx diaspora, ultimately contributing to a more diverse, tolerant, and interconnected nation. It reminds us of the essential role Latinx individuals have played and continue to play in shaping the cultural tapestry and progress of the United States.The 2023-24 tribute is Prosperity, Power, and Progress; celebrating the significant achievements of the Hispanic community in the economic and political arenas.

Hispanic Heritage Month • Be Inspired • Disney Channel

Hispanic Heritage Month | Be Inspired | Disney Channel

Influential Hispanic Americans

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Ellen Ochoa

Learn all about this remarkable astronaut here, and about other notable Hispanic American scientists here.

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Lin-Manuel Miranda

Here's a kid-appropriate bio of this musical theater ⭐️, plus a video of his 8th grade English teacher.

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Sonia Sotomayor

A great video intro to this Supreme Court Justice. For more Hispanic women taking charge today, check out this list.

Celebrate Hispanic/LatinX Heritage Month with Oakland Schools

Rosh Hashanah: September 15 - 17

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism’s holiest days. Meaning “head of the year” or “first of the year,” the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two “High Holy Days” in the Jewish religion.

Mexican Independence Day: Saturday, September 16

On September 16, Mexicans around the globe will celebrate the anniversary of the country’s independence from Spain. The day is marked by a national holiday in Mexico, a reenactment of a historic moment from the revolution’s leader, and an array of performances from fireworks to dance routines

Native American Day: Friday, September 22

Native American Day is celebrated on the fourth Friday of September every year, falling on September 22 this year, as a way of honoring those who have been a part of the American tradition even before the nation of the U.S.A. came into being. However, the history of the Native Americans is written in blood and violence. After centuries of persecution, not much is left of the tribes and many have integrated into modern society. Those still in touch with their roots, will remember these events and honor their ancestor’s sacrifices. Native American Day is a holiday that hopes to change the way people view Native Americans and their culture.

Yom Kippur: September 24-25

Otherwise known as the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur is considered the holiest day in Judaism. The holiday lasts approximately 25 hours and is typically observed with fasting and prayer in alignment with the themes of atonement and repentance. On Yom Kippur, people observing the holiday are asked to abstain from food and drink (among other routines or hobbies).

The Social Justice Question Corner

Cultural Representation

How can I ensure that the curriculum and classroom materials are inclusive and represent the diversity of Hispanic and Latinx cultures and backgrounds?


Language and Bilingualism

How do language policies and practices impact Hispanic and Latinx students' educational experiences?


Identity and Intersectionality

How do aspects of identity such as race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status intersect in the lives of Hispanic and Latinx students?

How can I create an inclusive classroom environment that respects and values these diverse identities?


Cultural Awareness

How can I foster cultural awareness and sensitivity among all students, promoting a classroom where everyone feels respected and included?


Inclusive Teaching Methods

Are there opportunities for collaborative and culturally responsive learning experiences?


Access and Equity

What disparities may exist in access to educational resources, opportunities, and support for Hispanic and Latinx students? How can I advocate for equitable access and outcomes for all students?


Social Justice Issues

How can I create a safe space for students to express their thoughts and concerns about these topics?


Global Perspective

How can I incorporate a global perspective into the curriculum to help students understand the interconnectedness of issues facing Hispanic and Latinx communities worldwide?

Join Midtown Detroit, Inc. and the Detroit Cultural Center institutions for its first district-wide Educator's Night on Tuesday, September 26, from 4:30 -8 PM. You're invited to learn more about field trip opportunities, traveling educational programs and performances, summer camps, while experiencing guided tours and other interactive activities in the Detroit Cultural Center.


Five cultural institutions will be open and host other organizations from around the metro Detroit area, themed around the following disciplines:


  • Art and Design
  • Culture, History, Theatre
  • History Resources, Natural History, Geography
  • Music
  • STEM


Teachers are encouraged to check in at the institution that best matches their teaching discipline, and then visit all the other four institutions throughout the night. More than 30 arts, cultural, and educational organizations in total will be on-site sharing resources exclusively for teachers. You are bound to learn about new programs and resources that could be perfect for your classroom.

For more information, please contact Gregory Smith, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

for Farmington Public Schools at gregory.smith@fpsk12.net

Farmington Public Schools shall not discriminate against any person based on race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, age, disability, height, weight, or marital status in any of its programs, services, activities or employment. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to: Director, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, 32500 Shiawassee, Farmington, MI 48336.

Courtney O'Hara
Courtney is using Smore to create beautiful newsletters