Uniting Hempstead High School as one

Editor's note: Lucy Acosta is a senior at Hempstead High School. She wrote this piece as part of Hofstra University's new Community Journalism Program, created by Herald Senior Editor Scott Brinton. 

A loud, screeching bell rang through the hallway of my old elementary school as I was walking to my next class. As the halls filled with students at Bethpage Elementary School, I could feel the walls closing in on me. I noticed, however, a new face I hadn't seen before. It was a new kid at school who was accompanied by a parent, struggling to navigate through the chaos. I remembered when it was my innocent face –– a 6 year-old immigrant student from Honduras. 

My experience as a student from a Spanish-speaking country is not at all unique at Hempstead High School, where I am now a senior. Over the past few years, Hempstead High has seen a steady increase in the number of immigrant students enrolling for a chance at a better education. Just this past school year, more than 300 new students made the school their home.

With this large influx of students, the limited space in the building has become an issue for more than just the administration. While Hempstead High attempts to give all students the same level of education and attention, many English-speaking students are starting to feel a bit neglected.

David Wells, 15, is a sophomore at Hempstead High School who admits to feeling "overrun" by the Hispanic population, which is outgrowing the African-American population. “There aren't enough books for me and that is taking away from my learning," says Wells.

Historically, Hempstead has been known as a predominantly African-American community. With the changing landscape of the country, the demographics of local neighborhoods are shifting as well. This change can create conflict between different groups that occupy these spaces.

When I first arrived in this country, I did not wish to take opportunities away from anyone's education. My family simply wanted a better life for me. Having experienced what is like to be an immigrant student to now being immersed in the American culture, I can understand the concerns and frustrations of both communities.