Overview
Support Austin ISD as we honor and celebrate our Latino & Hispanic community throughout Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 through October 15). These funds raised will also support Austin ISD’s annual Latino Academic Achievement Awards ceremony held in April.

Details
For many of our students, families and staff, the Spanish language is a fundamental part of Hispanic heritage. Twenty-two thousand of our students identify Spanish as the primary language spoken at home. More than 40,000 students identify as Latino or Hispanic, and every one of those 40,000 have ancestors who spoke Spanish. For the district, it’s more than just celebrating Hispanic heritage. Leaders also prioritize understanding cultures and languages from across the globe for all children in the district.

In 1992, Austin ISD launched the Celebration of Hispanic Heritage event which evolved into the Latino Academic Achievement Awards in 2009. This award ceremony was created to honor students who were historically under-recognized for their academic achievement. Every year this event highlights Latino student leadership, progress, and academic achievement, as well as community members who have not only supported students, faculty, and campuses, but have also promoted the Latino culture. The goal of the award ceremony is to bring the Latino community together to recognize and celebrate the academic achievements of Latino students. 

What fundraised dollars will support:

• Austin ISD Talent Show Join the Fiesta - Inviting families and students to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month by bringing their best dancing, music, singing or visual artistry to the table as part of Join the Fiesta, a virtual talent show celebrating Hispanic culture.
• Join the Fiesta Talent Show Award Ceremony and Performances - This event will wrap up our celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month with music, performances and awards. 
• Annual Latino Academic Achievement Awards ceremony - Annual district-wide award ceremony where the community comes together to support, recognize and celebrate our Latino students, staff, families and allies.

We are currently looking for support from individual donors, community members, and sponsors. Additional information about sponsorship levels and benefits can be found in the table below. 

For any questions regarding the Hispanic Heritage Month & Celebrations, please contact Norma Garza Mittanck (norma.garzamittanck@austinisd.org). For any questions about Latino Academic Achievement Awards, please contact Cody Fernández (cody.fernandez@austinisd.org).