September Events & Holidays in RTM

Welcome to the 2026-27 School Year!

Parents, teachers, students, and administrators came together to learn about and discuss the cultural holidays and events observed throughout the school year. Together, they developed the list of holidays and events our schools will recognize, teach about, or celebrate. The selections featured in this newsletter reflect the voices and input of our community.

By learning about the cultures, traditions, and experiences represented in our community, we build greater understanding and acceptance of one another. This shared learning strengthens relationships and enhances each person’s sense of belonging in our schools.

Please select the “Resources” links to learn more.

Please email Ralph Harrison if you have any suggestions or ideas about our monthly events and holidays. We honor dignity by taking the time to learn about the cultures of all of our community members. The events/holidays are listed in the order they occur during the month. For more details, please click on the "Resources" links.

What It Is

Krishna Janmashtami, also called Janmashtami, is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, who is widely revered as an incarnation of Vishnu. The observance usually occurs in August or September, based on the Hindu lunar calendar.

A Brief History

The celebration is rooted in Hindu sacred texts and traditions that tell of Krishna’s birth in Mathura, India. His life and teachings, including those in the Bhagavad Gita, continue to guide many Hindus.

How It Is Celebrated

Families and communities may fast, pray, sing devotional songs, decorate homes and temples, and share festive foods. Some communities hold dramatic performances and stay awake until midnight to mark the traditional time of Krishna’s birth.

Did You Know?

In some communities, children dress as Krishna and his companion Radha. Celebrations may also include dahi handi, a team event in which participants form human pyramids to reach a decorated pot placed high above the ground.

What It Is

A month-long celebration recognizing the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

Brief History

Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. It was expanded to a full month in 1988 under President Ronald Reagan. The dates were chosen to align with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries. Over time, the observance has grown to include educational programs, cultural events, and community celebrations that highlight the diverse histories and contributions of people with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

How It Is Celebrated

Communities, schools, libraries, and cultural organizations may highlight Hispanic and Latino authors, artists, leaders, music, food, languages, and traditions. Celebrations vary widely because Hispanic and Latino communities represent many nations, identities, and cultural traditions.

Did you know? September 15 marks the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

What It Is

A day of remembrance honoring those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

Brief History

On September 11, 2001, coordinated terrorist attacks targeted the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., with a fourth plane crashing in Pennsylvania. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives. In response, Congress designated September 11 as Patriot Day later that year. Since then, communities across the country have marked the day with ceremonies, educational programs, and acts of service to honor victims and recognize the courage of first responders.

How It Is Observed

People may observe a moment of silence, attend remembrance programs, learn about the events and their impact, or take part in service to their communities. Flags are commonly displayed at half-staff in tribute to those who died.

Did you know?

A moment of silence is often observed at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center.

What It Is

The Jewish New Year, marking the beginning of the High Holy Days.

Brief History

Rosh Hashanah originates in the Torah and has been observed for thousands of years as a time of spiritual reflection and renewal. It commemorates the creation of the world and begins a ten-day period known as the Days of Awe, leading to Yom Kippur. Traditions include attending synagogue services, hearing the sounding of the shofar, and engaging in self-reflection and reconciliation. Over time, cultural customs such as festive meals and symbolic foods have become an important part of the observance.

How It Is Celebrated

Many Jewish families attend synagogue services and hear the sounding of the shofar, a ram’s horn. Traditional foods include apples dipped in honey, symbolizing hope for a sweet new year, and round challah bread, which represents the cycle of the year.

Did you know?

Apples dipped in honey are eaten to symbolize hopes for a sweet new year.

What It Is

Yom Kippur, often called the Day of Atonement, is one of the holiest days of the Jewish year. It is a time for reflection, repentance, forgiveness, and seeking to repair relationships.

A Brief History

Yom Kippur has ancient roots in the Torah, where it is described as a sacred day for atonement and spiritual renewal. For centuries, Jewish communities have observed the day through prayer, fasting, reflection, and seeking forgiveness from both God and other people. It occurs ten days after Rosh Hashanah and concludes the Ten Days of Awe.

How It Is Observed

Many Jewish people attend synagogue services and may fast from food and drink for approximately 25 hours. Fasting practices vary based on age, health, and individual circumstances. The day ends at nightfall, and many families gather for a meal to break the fast.

Did You Know?

Some Jewish people wear white on Yom Kippur as a symbol of spiritual renewal and humility. At the close of the holiday, the shofar is traditionally sounded.