In preparation for John Lewis Childs School’s Multicultural Festival, students discussed what countries their ancestors originated from, located those countries on a world map and created artwork featured at the annual event.
First, the elementary students researched where their ancestors came from. They were then given one small pin for each country that represented their background and placed them on a large world map displayed near the gymnasium. In art class, students in grades one through five used the flags of their ancestors’ birthplaces as inspiration to create paper hands. According to art teacher Maria Mecchi, the classes engaged in conversations about different countries, their location and the colors used in their respective flags. The students’ artwork was exhibited on the walls of the gymnasium.
“The Multicultural Festival is held to celebrate all the different cultures that make up our community,” Principal Susan Fazio said. “With our growing population, we have welcomed many new families from many different countries and want all of our students to feel comfortable to share their culture and celebrate what makes them unique.”
Fazio said the event was a tremendous success, with many families attending and sharing traditional desserts from a variety of countries. Students also performed a song or dance to represent the country of their family’s origin. Many were dressed in beautiful outfits that portrayed their culture and tradition.
