South Middle School was bursting with color, culture and community pride as Brentwood Union Free School District celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with an evening filled with music, performances and heartfelt recognition.

The school was transformed for the occasion – draped in vibrant flags and decorations representing nations across Latin America. Students dressed as Hispanic cultural icons, presented creative projects and performed live music and dance routines, while families enjoyed authentic food prepared specially for the celebration.

Amid the festivities, three beloved members of the Brentwood community – Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education Ann Palmer, longtime monitor Brigida Gallucci and bilingual office assistant Vanessa Espinal – were surprised with special honors recognizing their years of devotion and service.

For Palmer, who will retire in December after decades of leadership, the moment carried special meaning. A proud Brentwood graduate, Palmer reflected on the community that shaped her life.

She described herself affectionately as “La Media Boricua” – half Puerto Rican, half Italian – or, as she likes to say, “ItaliaRican.” “And whether I’m trying to speak Spanish or Italian,” she joked, “I’m always talking with my hands!”

Palmer shared memories of her grandmother and the Spanish lullaby “Los Pollitos Dicen,” a family tradition she said reminds her of Brentwood’s children –  “our little pollitos” – learning, growing and finding their voices with the support of caring educators and families.

“That, to me, is the heart of Brentwood – a community that nurtures, protects and believes in every child,” Palmer said.

To her surprise, Palmer’s mother, husband and son joined her on stage to share in the honor, met with warm applause from the audience of students, colleagues and families.
The evening celebrated both the richness of Hispanic heritage and the deep sense of connection that defines Brentwood – a community proud of its roots, its people and the shared stories that bring it all to life.