Teachers at Gilbert Spruance Elementary School held a week-long multicultural celebration, which culminated in an outdoor event on Thursday, May 19, to honor the diversity of the student body.
The celebration included class research projects and multimedia presentations that the students demonstrated at the event. It also included singing, dancing and food presented by parents.
The elementary school’s equity team, run by teacher Sonia Thornton, organized the event in memory of the late Bilingual Counseling Assistant Ms. Ana and teacher Mrs. Temple.
“At Spruance we have children and families from so many different countries. It’s a huge point of pride,” Thornton said. “The goal of this week is for our students to share and celebrate their culture while celebrating and learning about the cultures of their peers.”
Originally, the school held a single multicultural day. Students brought traditional dishes from their cultures to share with the class. Ms. Ana hoped to expand the event beyond just food, so after her passing, the equity team made her plans a reality. Similarly, they expanded the event from a day to a week to honor Mrs. Temple.
“We also have awards in their memories that we will be giving to some well-deserving students, teachers and staff. I’m excited to give those awards out,” Thornton said.
Cultures in many countries were represented, including Haiti, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Egypt, Tunisia, Pakistan, Albania and many more.
“I think that events like this allow our students to value their culture and their differences,” Thornton said. “I am extremely proud of all members of the Gilbert Spruance community for seeing our vision and helping us make it a reality.”
