Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
The U.S. government has dedicated the month of May to be Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. During this month we celebrate the numerous accomplishments and contributions from Asian-American and Pacific Islanders here in the United States. The National Endowment for the Humanities provides free resources for teachers, including various lesson plans, curricula, and teacher guides.
Other resources are:
- Learning for Justice (formerly Teaching Tolerance) suggestions for celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage
- How to Teach Children About Cultural Awareness and Diversity (PBS)
- Social Story on Anti-Racism: A Scary Trip to a Grocery Store by Dr. Shu-Chen Jenny Yen
Jewish American Heritage Month
Throughout the month of May, we celebrate and recognize Jewish-American contributions and achievements of Jewish Americans in shaping the nation’s history, culture, and society. It was first proclaimed in 2006 by President George W. Bush, following efforts by the Jewish Museum of Florida and the South Florida Jewish community.
During this month, various events, educational programs, and cultural activities take place to celebrate Jewish heritage and promote understanding of Jewish American history. It’s a time to reflect on the rich and diverse experiences of Jewish Americans and their impact on the country.
May 5 – 11 — National Children’s Book Week
National Children’s Book Week is the longest national literacy initiative, founded in 1919 by Every Child a Reader. This year it takes place from May 5th through May 11th! Expose your child to books by reading aloud, visiting your local library, and using story props to make reading engaging and interactive!
May 5 — Cinco de Mayo
May 7 — National Teacher’s Day and Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5 – 9)
In observance of National Teacher Appreciation Day, here are some ideas on how to thank our teachers!
- Create a hand-made card or write a letter to express your gratitude
- Volunteer in the classroom
- Bring a small bundle of fresh grown flowers or herbs from your garden
- Have your child create a drawing or painting and add a narration of their story
May 11 — Mother’s Day: A Campaign for Peace and Justice
Anna Jarvis founded Mother’s Day in 1858 as an action and dedication to improve the lives of families as well as a call for peace. This was followed by the peace activist and suffragette Julia Ward Howe, who called for the celebration of a “Mother’s Day for Peace” as a pacifist reaction to the carnage of the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War.
May 12 — Vesak Day (Buddhism, Southeast Asia)
May 26 — Memorial Day
May 27 — Rachel Carson’s birthday
