Students across grade levels came together for Independence Primary and Middle School’s first annual Cultural Fair on April 25 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Independence Civic Center. Over the past several months, in the spirit of unity, understanding, and diversity appreciation, second and sixth graders collaborated on projects showcasing the traditions, customs and heritage of different nations.
Working in pairs or small groups, students created tri-fold boards highlighting cultural aspects like presentations, displays, attire and cuisine from assigned countries. The joint effort aimed to strengthen bonds between upper and lower elementary students while sparking cultural discovery.
There were 75 different countries represented at the event and included cultural cuisine samples provided by local restaurants, a mariachi band, and each country’s customs and traditions shared by the students. The event’s theme centered around the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France and the countries participating in this year’s games. The Olympic rings represent the five populated continents of the world. Students were grouped according to the Olympic rings and wore corresponding t-shirts.
As Michelle Koussa, one of the sixth-grade teachers, eloquently stated during her opening remarks, “Tonight we celebrate the kaleidoscope of cultures from around the globe under the overarching theme of unity inspired by the 2024 Summer Olympics. Students have worked so hard over the last few months to learn from each other and work together to transcend the school walls and embrace diversity in all its splendor. The spirit of the Olympics serves as our guiding light, reminding us that despite our differences, we are all united by a common humanity.'"
Parents were encouraged to share related expertise and resources to enrich the educational value for their children. By working across ages, students learned from peers, compared perspectives, and built intergraded relationships.
“We’re thrilled for this chance to foster community while celebrating cultures,” said Principal T.J. Ebert. “Seeing our students teach each other about traditions worldwide was amazing. The fair was a cultural exchange for both students and families.”
All parents and community members were welcome to attend this heritage showcase. There was an Olympic backdrop where families enjoyed taking selfies. Families also were able to put their name in a box that represented the country where their ancestors came from. The boxes were on a large banner that featured the school’s iPride logo and the Olympic slogan, “Stronger, higher, faster together.” There also were gift baskets awarded to participants in a Bingo drawing. Prizes were supplied by the local businesses, the City of Independence and the Independence Local Schools.
“This was a nice way to celebrate all of the personal connections and culture within the City of Independence,” said Ebert. In the works for May will be some type of event with Olympic-type games and a picnic at Elmwood Park to celebrate the success of this first ever Cultural Fair at Independence Local Schools.
Special thanks to the City of Independence, Indy Alive, and the IPS and IMS PTOs, and Aladdin’s, Cozumel, Gentile’s, Thai Gourmet, and Tita Flora’s. Two other restaurants have donated items for three gift baskets that were raffled: Sweet P’s Café & Bakery and Wasabi.
