Three Manhasset AP Italian students honored for video project

The Island Now
From left, Superintendent of Schools Vincent Butera, teacher Maria Mellace and IACE President Berardo Paradiso congratulate Manhasset AP Italian students Despina Frankis, Alexis Powers and Alessia Ruffo for their award-winning video “La Resistenza in Cucina” during a dinner at the Italian Cultural Institute in New York City. (Photo courtesy of Manhasset School District)

Manhasset Secondary School is pleased to announce that three AP Italian students have been chosen as winners of the “La Resistenza in Cucina (The Resistance in the Kitchen)” video project sponsored by the Italian American Committee on Education. Congratulations to Despina Frankis, Alexis Powers and Alessia Ruffo for their award-winning video.

Under the guidance of their teacher, Maria Mellace, students analyzed authentic materials from post-World War II Italy which were relevant during the time the Italian constitution was ratified. After reviewing the materials and researching the topic, they submitted their original video on how the culinary habits of the Italian population were shaped due to the economic difficulties and the social/political environment in the aftermath of WWII when the Italian constitution was approved.

“I am particularly impressed with how these students constructed insightful connections between their own community and cultures and the theme of the video, a skill which is essential for success on the AP exam,” Mellace said.

As part of the award the students, Mellace and administrators attended a dinner sponsored by the Italian American Committee on Education on Nov. 19 at the Italian Cultural Institute in New York City. They also received monetary awards. You can view their winning video on the Manhasset School District website at www.manhassetschools.org.

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