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
Mental Health Awareness Month
This year’s campaign through Mental Health America (MHA), is focused on More Good Days, Together — reflect on what a good day looks like for us as well as for our communities. This website provides some great free resources!
May 1:
- International Workers Day
- Bike Awareness Month
- 20th anniversary of Day without an Immigrant
- Beltane, Festival of Fertility (Pagan)
May 4 — First Day of National Children’s Book Week
Children’s Book Week takes place from May 4 to 10 this year. Teaching your children to immerse themselves in a good book is one of the most valuable things you can do as a parent. A childhood love of reading sets the stage for success as an adult. Set some time aside to do some reading with your children this week and inspire a lifelong love of the written word. This week was created by Every Child a Reader in 1919 and is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the country!
May 4 — National Teachers’ Day
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 5 — Cinco de Mayo
Marco’s Cinco de Mayo by Lisa Bullard, follows a young boy named Marco as he celebrates Cinco de Mayo with his family. The story introduces readers to Mexican culture through Marco’s experiences with traditional foods, music, decorations, and family gatherings. As Marco helps prepare for the celebration, readers learn that Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla and is a day to honor Mexican heritage.
May 9 — World Fair Trade Day
May 10 — Mother’s Day
May 15 — International Conscientious Objectors Day
May 25:
- Memorial Day
- African Liberation Day
May 27 — Eid-al-Adha (Islam)
Note for readers of the newsletter: As educators, we promote family inclusion in selecting holidays and celebrations, valuing respect for all, and opportunities to learn about new and different holidays.
