How Does a South Gate Teacher Celebrate Fall?
By Valerie Larios
Sandra Caballero outside of her classroom on Halloween 2025.
Courtesy of Brynn Kan
As autumn settles in, we are all finding new ways to celebrate the season. From pumpkin patches and Halloween events to cozy movie nights and fall festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Fall is a time for creativity, and making memories with friends and family.
Sandra Caballero, an English teacher at South Gate high school, shared her love for fall activities.
Caballero, who has taught at the school for the past four years, discussed how she enjoys seeing everyone’s costumes each year and said, “It’s a good way for everyone to show their creativity and it’s really fun to see.”
This year, Caballero is dressing up as Eeyore from Winnie The Pooh for the holiday and is donning a fun and cozy onesie.
Carved pumpkins at the Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns
Courtesy of Sandra Caballero
Outside of school, Caballero enjoys watching horror movies and visiting spooky events to celebrate this special season. When it comes to Halloween movies, The Grudge holds a special place in her heart and reminds of her childhood memories. “I remember watching it as a kid and it scared the bejesus out of me,” stated Caballero.
Another honorable mention for Ms. Caballero is Insidious. She explained that “It’s the only movie that actually made me scream.”
Caballero celebrated Halloween by attending the Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns in Los Angeles: “It was a really fun event and it’s a great activity especially for younger kids or a family to enjoy together.”
The event features hundreds of carved pumpkins, s’mores stations, a fun zone, many photo opportunities, and seasonal treats and beverages. “There were a bunch of spooky pumpkins throughout,” described Caballero.
In fact, the event features over 10,000 carved jack o’ lanterns. Additionally, there are massive spooky displays and beautiful botanic gardens.
“It wasn’t very spooky but for a family event I’d say it’s worth it,” explained Caballero. The Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns provides a safe space for kids and a fun adventure for families. Not everyone enjoys getting spooked so visiting events such as this one is a great way to have fun and spend time with your loved ones.
Overall, fall is a season full of fun and community spirit. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. As Caballero shared, experiences like the Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns bring people together and remind us to slow down and appreciate the season.