Article Contributed on: 4/28/2009 9:29:00 AM
Free Horizon Montessori, a Jeffco Public Charter school, held its first annual Cultural Fair on Wednesday, April 15th. The event, planned by teachers on the school's Cultural and Diversity Professional Learning Community, provided an interactive way for students to share what they learned in classroom cultural studies with their families and friends. After selecting a country to study, students researched areas of interest ranging from history, geography, cultural traditions, food, and flag symbolism, as well as literary, musical, and dramatic influences from their country of focus. Classes then put together a variety of activities for others visiting their "country" to experience.
Children loved getting their passports stamped at the countries throughout the school. Families enjoyed performances, sampled foods, listened to music, and created beautiful crafts as they journeyed throughout the school exploring cultures from around the world.
"My brother performed in a play (from Mexico). It was about a half-chick and how being nice makes a big difference," said Audrey, a kindergartner.
Maia, a 4th grader, said, "It was really cool how each class did something different."
"Yeah," agreed Brandon, a 5th grader. "I found it interesting that each class had such a unique study. It went very well."
"The Greek statues were really cool," 3rd grader Adam exclaimed, "They all just stood there until Mr. Seth made a sound, then they all moved." "They looked so realistic," agreed Delany, 4th grade.
With more than 76% of families participating, the event far exceeded the organizers' attendance expectations. "All but one of our students came," reported Lower Elementary teacher Bree Goans, "It was a huge success!"
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Free Horizon Montessori in is a Jeffco Public Charter School serving children in preschool through 6th grade. FHM is conveniently located near the I-70 and C-470 interchange in Golden. The school has limited elementary openings for the upcoming 2009 - 2010 school year and is accepting registrations for their summer camp program for children age 3 - 12. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact Kresta Vuolo, Communications Director, at 303.231.9801 x229 or kvuolo@jeffco.k12.co.us.