Students with Legado Latino ask Santa Monica for $15,000 to fund bilingual graduation and scholarships

Students representing Legado Latino addressed the City Council during general public comment to request $15,000 in city support for a bilingual Latino graduation celebration and scholarships.

"I am Tanya Cortez. I am a senior at Santa Monica High School, and I'm here as representative of Legado Latino," student Tanya Cortez said, asking the council for $10,000 to cover celebration costs and $5,000 to establish scholarships for Latino seniors who demonstrate leadership and plan to attend four‑year institutions.

Other student speakers emphasized why a separate, bilingual celebration matters. "Funding would help provide culturally meaningful graduation recognition, student scholarships, and essentially celebration costs like food and music elements that allow families to fully participate," Elena Policarpo said, arguing that ceremonies in Spanish make graduations accessible to grandparents and family members.

Students framed the request as both cultural recognition and an investment in future civic and workforce leaders. Mark Moncarios told the council that prior city funding contributed to a memorable event and that an increase was necessary this year because of a larger graduating class.

The students requested the council consider ongoing support, not a one‑time allocation, to ensure the celebration and scholarship program continue for future cohorts. Council members did not vote on the request during the meeting; it appeared during the public‑comment period and will likely be referred to staff for follow‑up.