Steele Elementary School Uses Art to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

This year, Steele Elementary School celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month using the power of visual arts. The cultural awareness month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, honors the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Steele decided to host their inaugural “Viva Latina Art Exhibition” in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. The art gallery amounted to an impressive 277 art pieces crafted by students, K-5.

“The Hispanic Heritage Art Exhibition was truly magical. I’m so proud that every student contributed a project—each piece reflected their creativity, learning, and pride,” said Ms. LaTrace Finney, principal of Steele Elementary School. “Experiences like this are so important because they give our students meaningful opportunities to showcase their talents and celebrate culture through art.”

The empowering schoolwide initiative invited students to produce their art pieces at home and then present their work in class, celebrating creativity and cultural expression. From posters filled with photographs and details about famous Hispanic celebrities to crayon-drawn portraits of family members, the artwork varied beautifully across grade levels. Art teacher, Ms. Nicole Rubin, curated the collection into a museum-style exhibit, transforming the school gymnasium into a vivid art gallery. Families also volunteered to assist with the decor and setup.

The art show was a tremendous success, highlighting both student talent and community involvement. Families especially appreciated the invitation to come view their child’s art in person, while celebrating the Hispanic heritage in Baldwin. 

Ms. Nicole Rubin, who helped orchestrate the event, expressed her immense pride in the end result. “The Hispanic Heritage Art Show turned out better than we could have imagined,” she said. “It was incredible to see how each student interpreted the assignment so creatively, so differently, and so beautifully. I was very proud of all the students at Steele and the best part was seeing their faces when they spotted their artwork amongst the 277 pieces we received! They were so excited and the energy at the event was electric. I was so happy to be able to be a part of this wonderful initiative!”

Steele’s “Viva Latina Art Exhibition” exemplifies the district’s commitment to fostering future ready competencies, including “students as producers,” to help create a much deeper, more meaningful learning experience.

The administration and staff look forward to developing more school-wide educational experiences that are tied to the community and promote family engagement.