Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. More than 34 percent of MCPS students are Hispanic or of Hispanic descent. This month brings an opportunity to highlight the contributions and rich diversity of the many Hispanic cultures across Montgomery County. It also gives us a chance to celebrate some of our wonderful staff members and leaders who are of Hispanic heritage.

• Karla Silvestre, president of the Montgomery County Board of Education 
• Edgar Perez, security team leader at Northwood High School

Sept. 25, 2024

Karla Silvestre

As the president of the Montgomery County Board of Education, Karla Silvestre has been instrumental in shaping the district's policies and priorities. Her perspective as a Latina in a diverse community provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing education today. Ms. Silvestre shares her insights and experiences in this Hispanic Heritage Month Q&A.

Tell us about your Hispanic/Latino background.

I was born in Guatemala and came to the U.S. when I was 8 years old because of the civil war. My father is Mayan, so I identify with my Indigenous heritage as well. On the U.S. Census, I mark multi-race because that most accurately reflects my heritage (Indigenous, European, and African). I speak Spanish, though I am still working on learning to write it well. I encourage students to take Spanish in school so they can learn to write the language even if you speak it at home.

Why is your Latinidad so important as a leader?

I think representation matters in all levels of leadership. I bring my unique background and perspective as a Latina and an immigrant to decision-making. When you have a district as diverse as MCPS, it is important to know the people you serve. Everyone can learn to be more culturally and linguistically competent but if you have the lived experience from the start, the impact is more immediate to the people you serve. Because I am aware of this, I try to learn about all of our communities in the county.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally?

I have been in this country for many years and my family is far away so it is a time to stop, reflect, and celebrate our culture, heritage and contributions. Latinos are a diverse community with rich traditions and people contributing to our society in a myriad of ways. It is important to celebrate this throughout the year in everything we do and also during Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month.

What has been your experience in MCPS as a Latino leader?

I am often the only Latina in the room and I strive to put systems in place to change this. I am proud to represent my community and hope that it will inspire others to serve others. I strive to make our school system better for all.

What do you want to share with MCPS students and staff as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage month?

Be proud of who you are and where you come from. Take time to learn more about your family, your background and your language. Embrace it and bring your whole self to MCPS. Take advantage of everything MCPS has to offer and have high expectations for yourself and the system. Getting a good education will benefit you for the rest of your life.

Sept. 19, 2024

Edgar Perez

This week, we are featuring Edgar Perez, security team leader at Northwood High School.  Perez has a clear mission—to build strong relationships with students and to help them succeed in school by keeping them safe and secure.

At school, Perez has proven to be a leader for the faculty and staff, and a support for the students. According to Assistant Principal Larissa Amador, Perez builds bonds with the students and his kindness makes him an example to follow.

You will often find him in the hallways chatting with students about their homework or families. He works hard to build strong and respectful relationships with the students. “Mr. Perez is kind and helps us whenever we need it,” said Welner, a Northwood student. 

Perez says that MCPS has always been an essential part of his life. His parents, 

Cuki and Gloria Perez, both worked for MCPS for 40 years. Cuki and Gloria Perez left their native countries of Panama and El Salvador to follow the American dream. Perez credits his dedication to them and to his Latin roots.

“I've been in MCPS schools since the 1980s, running around with my parents and that gave me my work ethic,” he said. 

Perez, who graduated from Springbrook High School, said that education was the foundation for his future. Perez has been working at MCPS for 10 years and, prior to that, he spent nine years in the U.S. Air Force as a mechanic.

Perez is most passionate about being able to help Latino students through high school. His work is appreciated by his colleagues and students. “Thank you for all the things you have done for us; we appreciate it,” said student Danyi. “You are the best!”