Washington Multicultural Fair
Creates Excitement
Washington Primary School's first ever multicultural fair drew a crowd of more than 350 students, parents and family members to the building last Friday for an evening of food, music, dancing, games, displays of artifacts, a cute one act play and even a performance by a bagpipe player.
Coordinated by Ilene Fucci, a Washington parent and co-PTA president, the event was a hit with participants. Flags of dozens of nations were draped from the ceiling of the building's hallways. Inside and outside of classrooms there were student-created displays highlighting the history, peoples and cultures of countries from around the world.
A variety of multicultural foods were offered at numerous locations throughout the school. Huntington School Board member Xavier Palacios brought his family and he was happy to taste various dishes. Fellow trustee Richard McGrath came with talented bagpipe player Kevin Barry, a fellow member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. The performance helped highlight the culture of Ireland.
There were displays focusing on an array of countries, including Russia, Peru, Argentina, Ecuador, Denmark, Israel, South Korea, China, Australia, South Africa, Morocco and many more.
New York Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci manned the Empire State exhibit. There was an invigorating dance performance in the gym as well as a sensational one act play acted out to song by costumed students who even utilized props.
Huntington Superintendent James W. Polansky and Washington Principal Marsha Neville were good sports on a hot day, greeting guests in the school's main lobby while dressed as Uncle Sam and the Statue of Liberty, respectively. Parent and former Washington PTA President Shari Harris donned a kangaroo outfit, complete with a joey in the pouch, for the Australia exhibit. Second grade teacher Patricia Maltempo was dressed as the Queen of England.
"It was a genuine pleasure to play a role in an event that was as enjoyable as it was educational," Mr. Polansky said. "Congratulations to Mrs. Fucci and the Washington PTA, Mrs. Neville and staff, the Washington students and all participants on their contributions to a wonderful evening."
PTA Council President Bari Fehrs was on hand to tour the festivities and support the PTA members and teachers who worked hard to create a fun and educational night. There were numerous games and performances in individual classrooms and plenty of souvenirs for the students that participated in the fair.
Washington School leadership team members pitched in as tour guides. The fourth graders provided valuable assistance during the two-hour program, which included a scavenger hunt-type contest for students, who had to view each of the exhibits and presentations to accurately answer contest questions.
"It was a great learning experience for Washington students and a fun family activity," Mrs. Neville said.