New Haven Independent

“On Friday, Nov. 16, 2007, the staff, students and parents of Fair Haven K-8 School on Grand Avenue celebrated their rich Hispanic culture with a Hispanic Heritage Extravaganza.

“Students from Kindergarten to 8th grade, parents, and staff entertained the entire student body and community with traditional song and dance from various Latin-American and Caribbean cultures.

“Following the assembly, the celebration continued with a culinary presentation and food tasting. Dr. Jose Ortiz, bilingual supervisor for New Haven Public Schools, Principal Kim Johnsky and the entire staff of Fair Haven K-8 welcomed a standing room only crowd.

“‘Our students and staff put tremendous energy and passion into this important event
as they showcased their pride and commitment to Hispanic heritage,’” Principal
Johnsky said.

“The assembly culminated with the entire teaching and administrative staff taking the
stage for some salsa dancing.”

Fair Haven Hispanic Heritage dancers: Left to right, Syndia Fuentes (Grade 8 student), Eli Marie LLorens (senior at Wilbur Cross and 2007 Ms. Puerto Rico from New Haven), and Yashira Fernandez ( Grade 8 student)perform the traditional dance, “Plena Puertorriqueña.”

Fair Haven Hispanic Heritage Group: Some fifth graders from Marta Vazquez’s bilingual class wore colorful costumes as they performed an acrostic poem. Left to right, Jose Balderas, Yailyana Olivo, Joshua Acevedo, Yabdiel Badillo.