Teaching Artist Legacy Statement
As a Latina educator, performer, and songwriter, I promote cultural competency and pride through language learning (Spanish), music, play, and social interaction. My mission includes advocating for transformative social-emotional learning by encouraging educators to use culturally responsive practices that validate and affirm students' racial and cultural identities. This approach nurtures cross-cultural connections and explores the diverse traditions, histories, music, and stories of Puerto Rico.
| Component Type | Arts Workshop |
| Grades | Pre-K, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 |
| First Language | Spanish |
| Other Languages | English |
| Professional Links | https://cantandoyjugando.wixsite.com/elba/testimonials Facebook@elbacantandoyjugando Instagram@elbacantando Twitter@elballantin |
Testimonials
- Fair Haven Branch, New Haven Free Public Library, New Haven, CT
"Elba's Cantando y Jugando interactive musical program is the best event I have hosted at my library. Elba was responsive and communicative during the planning process, and she adjusted easily when we had a technical snafu right before the event began. My library is in a heavily Spanish-speaking neighborhood, and children, teens, and adults were so proud and excited to participate in a program that represented their own language and cultures. For the attendees who don't speak Spanish, Elba provided a fabulous immersion experience. She seamlessly incorporates everyone into her performance, old and young alike. I highly recommend having the program in an area where patrons will hear the music and see the activities, rather than an enclosed program room. Several patrons came to the library for their regular business and when they saw and heard Elba's excellent music and voice, they ended up staying for the entire event! I cannot recommend her enough - your community will love her!"
- Fair Haven Branch, New Haven Free Public Library, New Haven, CT
Description
More Arts Workshops with this Artist
![]() | MISSION The mission of Higher Order Thinking Schools is to close the opportunity gap in Connecticut by providing a well-rounded education for all students in, about, and through the arts. | OUTCOMES Enriching School Culture | CONTACTS Christopher Eaves |

