Learning local community culture

Student teachers from the college's early childhood education program visited La Estrella Bakery to learn about one of the most celebrated traditions in Mexico: Día de los Muertos. The class was led by Franco sisters Erica and Isabel, who shared stories about growing up in the bakery. Their parents opened La Estrella in 1986. Students learned about Día de los Muertos traditions like the making of the altar and pan de muerto. In honor of their late great uncle, the Francos built an altar in the bakery with offerings, or ofrenda in Spanish, like bread, flowers, and some of his favorite things, including beer and soccer. They shared stories about his life while explaining the cultural significance of making an altar to honor ancestors.
In the back of the bakery, Erica and Isabel gave a first-hand look at the making of pan de muerto. The students even had the chance to make their own painted sugar skulls. Teaching, Learning, & Sociocultural Studies Associate Professor Iliana Reyes organized the visit to demonstrate the importance of understanding and implementing community and cultural traditions in the classroom setting.