All Steward students take Spanish classes, starting in junior kindergarten and continuing through Upper School. This cultural immersion offers many benefits. Just ask our second graders! 

To kick off the school year and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, second graders read the story “Paletero Man” by Lucky Diaz in their Spanish class, which is taught by Lower School Spanish Teacher Jen Blanco. The bilingual book, charmingly illustrated, features themes of kindness and community … and a sweet surprise! 

“The book tells a delightful story,” shared Sra. Blanco. “On a hot summer day, a young boy sets out to find his favorite summer treat. Along the way, he meets local workers and neighbors as he searches for José, a street vendor who sells paletas (popsicles). When he reaches José, the boy realizes he lost the money he planned to use to pay for his paleta. José generously gives the boy and the nearby vendors and workers free paletas. It’s a story about the importance of empathy and kindness — both of which are central to Steward’s core values of care and respect.”

After reading the story, students brought their learning to life by making their own paletas using fresh sandía (watermelon) and limón (lime). Our second graders combined watermelon, lime juice, and a little bit of sugar, and teamed up to carefully pour the mixture into popsicle molds. The most challenging part of the process? Waiting for the paletas to freeze!

Students also sang a song about the paletero man and practiced their Spanish writing skills by creating step-by-step directions for making paletas. 

“Through this engaging experience, students connected language, culture, reading, and hands-on learning in a fun and meaningful way!” said Sra. Blanco.