Santa Monica students ask council for $15,000 to fund bilingual Latino graduation and scholarships

Tanya Cortez and six fellow student leaders addressed the Santa Monica City Council to request $15,000 in city support for a bilingual Latino graduation celebration and student scholarships. The students said the event recognizes leadership, community service and cultural identity and helps families fully participate in graduation ceremonies that they said are otherwise presented only in English.

“Legado Latino will host a culmination event to recognize students for their leadership, community service, and commitment to representing Latino culture throughout Santa Monica,” said Tanya Cortez, a senior at Santa Monica High School, who asked the council for $10,000 to cover celebration costs and an additional $5,000 to establish scholarships for graduating seniors who plan to attend four‑year colleges and have demonstrated leadership while overcoming barriers.

Other student speakers described how the club has served as a support network, helped students feel seen and strengthened community ties through cultural events. Speakers said the funding would cover culturally meaningful elements—food, music, bilingual recognition—that enable family members, including elders who may not speak English, to participate fully.

The students tied the request to broader goals of equity and retention: they said culturally affirming ceremonies improve students’ sense of belonging and their prospects for higher education. Council members acknowledged the request during public comment; the funding request was entered into the public record for the council to consider through the city’s normal budget and grant processes.

Next steps: the council did not vote on the request during public comment; staff and council will consider funding through the appropriate budget or community‑grant process and return with recommendations if the council directs staff to do so.