Hispanic Heritage Month
September 15-October 15
Hispanics/Latinos represent the largest student group in Meriden Public Schools. Currently, 58% of the student body is of Hispanic/Latino descent. Our Latino students represent a wide range of countries: South America, Central America, Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Cuba. The largest percentage of students are of Puerto Rican descent. At MPS, we believe it is important to recognize our Hispanic/Latino students, families, and employees!
The national theme for Hispanic Heritage Month 2021 is Esperanza: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope. In this edition, you will meet MPS' Hispanic administrators. In an upcoming edition we will meet some students and teachers.

Resources teachers can use in the classroom
National Hispanic American Heritage Month 2021
Facts about US Latinos for Hispanic Heritage Month
27 Books to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage
60 Empowering Books Starring Latina Mighty Girls
9 Must-Read Children’s Books for National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month Facts, Worksheets & History For Kids
Meet Meriden's Hispanic Administrators:
Mr. Eric Lopez Assistant Principal Washington Middle School Mr. Lopez has worked for MPS for 17 years. He's Puerto Rican and has lived in Meriden his whole life. He attended Lincoln and Platt. | Mrs. Janice Piña Assistant Principal Edison Middle School Mrs. Piña joined Edison this school year after several years as an administrator in New Britain. We're excited that she's a part of our MPS family! | Dr. Evelyn Robles-Rivas Supervisor of Language and Community Partners Dr. Robles has worked for MPS for three years. She is Puerto Rican and loves to sing and dance! |
Mr. Eric Lopez
Washington Middle School
Mr. Lopez has worked for MPS for 17 years. He's Puerto Rican and has lived in Meriden his whole life. He attended Lincoln and Platt.
Mrs. Janice Piña
Edison Middle School
Mrs. Piña joined Edison this school year after several years as an administrator in New Britain. We're excited that she's a part of our MPS family!
Dr. Lysette Torres Director of Equity and Instruction Dr. Torres has worked for the MPS for 21 years. She is Puerto Rican and was born and raised in Meriden. She graduated from Maloney High School. | Mr. Orlando Valentin Jr Assistant Principal at Hanover Elementary Mr. Valentin has worked for MPS for six years. He is a 3rd-degree black belt and has been coaching Meriden Raiders football for six years. | Mr. Gustavo Viteri Supervisor of Special Education Mr. Viteri has worked for MPS for 16 years. He is Ecuadorian and once had knee surgery after wrestling with a bear! |
Dr. Lysette Torres
Dr. Torres has worked for the MPS for 21 years. She is Puerto Rican and was born and raised in Meriden. She graduated from Maloney High School.
Mr. Orlando Valentin Jr
Mr. Valentin has worked for MPS for six years. He is a 3rd-degree black belt and has been coaching Meriden Raiders football for six years.