ORANGE PARK – Kindergarten students at Montclair Elementary learned the true meaning of culture and community on Tuesday as they were presented with special gifts to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.  

Orange Park High Spanish and Spanish Honor Society (“Voces Valientes”) students stopped by the school to distribute special piñatas in honor of the holiday. 

Orange Park High Foreign Language Teacher July Zachary said the annual project, involving 100 of her students, goes far beyond a fun craft. She said it allows students of all ages to deepen their understanding of culture and history within a community. 

May 5 commemorates the day that Mexico won the Battle of Puebla in 1862, gaining victory over the Second French Empire. The day is a symbol of national pride and success. Often misunderstood, junior Avery Schaefer said it’s important to not let the real message get lost. 

“It’s really the fight. That’s really what is important,” she said. “The fight that they’ve won that was really difficult for them.”  

“A community is definitely a big part of it,” added senior Adrihan Marty. “And keeping the knowledge going of what it actually means so it’s not misinterpreted in the future.” 

Piñatas are often recognized as one of the country’s most popular traditions. 

Each pinata was hand-crafted by students, who designed, decorated and filled them with candy—a way to celebrate Mexico’s cultural impact and spread joy to young children in the community. The students practiced speaking Spanish with the children and shared some insight on the anniversary and its importance—leaving a message of honor and cultural joy.  

“A lot of us are seniors, too. And we’ll be leaving high school, going on with our lives,” said senior Heily Davila. “And it’s heartwarming to see that we’re leaving this message for the little ones.”