ROCK SPRNGS — Stagecoach Elementary School students and staff observed the Day of the Dead yesterday by learning about the holiday and honoring its traditions.

The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) is a holiday for honoring the dead which originated in Mexico, but is now celebrated in many countries and regions. Participants create ofrendas (offerings) using items such as food, flowers, photos, and sugar skulls. The Day of the Dead is traditionally observed in the United States on November 1 and 2.

During school Tuesday, first-grade students listened to a presentation from parent volunteers about the Day of the Dead and how their families honor the tradition of placing flowers and candles on their loved ones’ gravesites. The students also learned is it customary for those observing the Day of the Dead to eat bread called Pan de Muerto.

Not only did the students enjoy learning about the traditions, but they were excited to try samples of the bread.

English Learner teacher Alex Ramirez said Stagecoach Elementary has honored this tradition since it opened about seven years ago.

“We have a huge hispanic population and that’s one of the reasons we do this,” Ramirez said.

Today it’s customary for Day of the Dead participants to paint their faces to look like skulls. They often decorate their face to represent a deceased loved one or an expression of themselves. Some of the students and employees had their faces painted. Some were simple, while other were intricate and colorful. Others decided to wear bright, beautiful dresses as well.