MARYSVILLE – A colorful display of dancing highlighted a gathering at Legacy High School on the Tulalip Campus Wednesday night.

The event kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month. A number of other events are planned in Marysville School District schools.

Wendy Messarina and Deborah Parker, both of the district’s Equity, Diversity and Indigenous Education Department, played major roles in putting on the event. My Achievers Program participants with the YMCA helped.

A dance group from Everett entertained the packed facility, along with a mariachi band. Soft tacos, beans and drinks were served. Parker said the Shokapee Nation on the East Coast donated 50 backpacks filled with school supplies to help students who didn’t get them at the start of the year because they “went so fast.”

Everett Community College had a booth where students could learn how to apply for financial aid and receive other information.

The state Migrant Education Program also had a booth to explain other resources available. Parker said the program helps families of migratory workers so their students can have academic success. One of the areas they help with is educating people about social media.

“The families worry about bullying,” Parker said.