Valerie Yob’s students have been learning about Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in October. The Rose Hill Middle School Spanish teacher had her students create an ofrenda (offering) at their school. The holiday is celebrated primarily in Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. It is an indigenous holiday. The holiday was combined with All Saint’s Day, which is a Christian celebration occurring during the first days of November.

People set up ofrendas in their homes during this month with pictures of loved ones who have passed away. Mourners also put out food, drinks and objects that were important to that person or remind others of that person. The marigold flower is very important in this tradition. It is believed that its bright color and strong odor help the souls return for this day and find their way home. The primary meaning behind this day is to remember loved ones, tell stories about them and remember their different characteristics. Most importantly, not to forget them just because they are not physically here.