Confluence Academies CEO, Dr. Candice Carter-Oliver, and South City Academy Spanish Teacher, Ms. Natalie Ottinger, recently appeared on Fox2's StudioSTL to discuss the vibrant community at South City Academy and how the school honors Hispanic Heritage Month.
The month is an important time to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. At South City Academy, these celebrations have come to life through student presentations about notable Hispanic and Latino figures and cultural performances where students and community members wear traditional dress and perform traditional dances. The festivities extend to a community festival with families, complete with a mariachi band, delicious food, and engaging activities.
With nearly 50% of its students coming from Hispanic and Latino backgrounds, South City Academy proudly integrates these rich cultures into everyday learning throughout the year. The school's diverse student body creates a vibrant tapestry of cultures, perspectives, and experiences, fostering an inclusive environment where students and staff embrace respect, acceptance, and belonging.
About 10% of South City’s teachers speak both English and Spanish, creating a bilingual environment that enhances language development, cognitive growth, and academic performance. Research shows that learning a second language early in life improves cognitive skills, fosters cultural awareness, and enhances long-term language proficiency.
South City Academy also hosts a monthly event, "Leyendo con la Familia," where families gather to enjoy snacks and read with their children, further strengthening community bonds.
You can watch the full StudioSTL segment here.