April Events & Holidays in RTMSD
Learning About Our Community & Our Cultures
A Collaborative Effort
Welcome to April and Spring!
In 2023, a dedicated group of parents, teachers, students, and administrators met monthly to review and discuss the many cultural holidays and other events that occur throughout the school year. This group collaborated to create a list of holidays and events that we will recognize, instruct, or celebrate in our schools. Our community chose the holidays and events you will see each month in this newsletter.
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.
Arab American Heritage Month
What it is
Arab American Heritage Month recognizes the history, culture, and contributions of Arab Americans. It highlights the diversity within Arab American communities, including people from over 20 countries in the Middle East and North Africa.
A Brief History
The observance began in the 1990s through efforts by educators and advocacy groups who wanted greater representation in schools and public life. In 2021, it was officially recognized at the national level, helping expand awareness across the country.
How it is Celebrated
Schools and communities feature Arab American voices through literature, art, and guest speakers. Classrooms may explore geography, language, and traditions from Arab cultures. Events often include music, food, and storytelling.
Did You Know
Arabic is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with over 300 million speakers.
Resources
American Library Association Resources
National Volunteer Month
What it is
National Volunteer Month recognizes the impact of volunteer service and encourages people to give their time to support others. It promotes civic responsibility and community engagement.
A Brief History
It expanded from National Volunteer Week, first established in 1974 by Points of Light. Over time, the recognition grew to include the entire month of April to highlight ongoing service efforts.
How it is Celebrated
Schools and organizations organize service projects such as food drives, clean-ups, and mentoring programs. Many groups also recognize volunteers through awards or public acknowledgments.
Did You Know
Students who volunteer often build stronger connections to their communities and develop leadership skills.
Resources
National Poetry Month
What it is
National Poetry Month celebrates poetry as a form of expression and its role in culture, history, and education. It encourages people of all ages to read and write poetry.
A Brief History
Launched in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets, it was created to increase appreciation for poetry and support poets and educators. It has since become a nationwide celebration.
How it is Celebrated
Students write original poems, participate in readings, and study poets from different cultures and time periods. Schools may host poetry slams or display student work.
Did You Know
Poetry can support social-emotional learning by helping students express thoughts and feelings in a structured way.
Resources
Passover
April 1–9 (begins at sundown April 1)
What it is
Passover is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites’ escape from slavery in Egypt. It is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays.
A Brief History
The holiday is rooted in the biblical book of Exodus and has been observed for over 3,000 years. It reflects themes of freedom, justice, and perseverance.
How it is Celebrated
Families gather for a Seder, a special meal that includes reading from the Haggadah, asking questions, and eating symbolic foods. Many avoid leavened products during the holiday.
Did You Know
The Seder includes four cups of wine or juice, each representing a promise of freedom.
Resources
Autism Awareness Day
April 2, 2026
What it is
Autism Awareness Day promotes understanding, inclusion, and respect for individuals with autism. It focuses on acceptance rather than awareness alone.
A Brief History
Established by the United Nations in 2008, the day encourages countries to improve support systems and increase understanding of autism spectrum disorder.
How it is Celebrated
Schools and communities engage in activities that highlight neurodiversity, promote inclusive practices, and encourage respectful language. Lessons often focus on strengths and abilities.
Did You Know
Autism is described as a spectrum because it affects individuals in different ways and to varying degrees.
Resources
Easter
April 5, 2026
What it is
Easter is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a central event in the Christian faith.
A Brief History
The celebration dates back to early Christianity and is connected to the events described in the New Testament. It follows the season of Lent, a period of reflection and preparation.
How it is Celebrated
People attend church services, gather with family, and participate in traditions such as egg decorating and community celebrations. Many communities host events for children.
Did You Know
Eggs are a symbol of new life and are commonly associated with Easter traditions.
Resources
National Day of Silence
April 10, 2026
What it is
The National Day of Silence is a student-led event that raises awareness about the effects of bullying and harassment, particularly for LGBTQ+ students.
A Brief History
It began in the mid-1990s as a small student action and has grown into a nationwide event supported by schools and organizations.
How it is Celebrated
Students take a voluntary vow of silence during the school day. Many schools also provide opportunities for discussion, reflection, and learning about inclusion.
Did You Know
Some schools follow the Day of Silence with activities that encourage student voice and dialogue about respect.
Resources
Orthodox Easter
April 12, 2026
What it is
Orthodox Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ within the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition.
A Brief History
It is based on the Julian calendar, which often results in a different date than Western Easter. Traditions have been passed down through centuries in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
How it is Celebrated
Celebrations include late-night church services, candlelight processions, and festive meals. Red eggs are often used to symbolize life and renewal.
Did You Know
Many Orthodox Easter services begin just before midnight and continue into the early morning.
Resources
Earth Day
April 22, 2026
What it is
Earth Day raises awareness about environmental issues and encourages actions that protect the planet.
A Brief History
First celebrated in 1970, it was created in response to growing concerns about pollution and environmental damage. It has since become a global movement.
How it is Celebrated
Schools and communities organize clean-ups, recycling efforts, and lessons on sustainability. Many students participate in projects that focus on conservation.
Did You Know
Earth Day helped lead to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Resources