The auditorium at Amityville Memorial High School was full of energy on Sept. 15, as the school kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with flair. The entire student body gathered to celebrate Spanish culture through song, dance and video presentations.

The Hispanic Heritage Club performed a flag dance, paying tribute to the many nations with significant Latino populations. A video featured famous Hispanics in history, including politicians, scientists and entertainers.

Drawing the biggest ovation from students was a performance by singer Raffi, who highlighted different types of Spanish music such as salsa and tango, while accompanied by student dancers. For his last of five songs, he invited all students and teachers up front to dance along.

The program was organized by the Hispanic Heritage Club under the direction of guidance counselor Maria Leon-Piñeros and Spanish teacher Elisa Castro. They said the goal was to celebrate an energetic culture with a dynamic and informative assembly.

Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, will be celebrated during assembly programs at other schools throughout the Amityville Union Free School District. At the high school, there will also be class discussions about different Hispanics who have made significant contributions in the United States.