It’s one world after all

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In today’s hostile world, Franklin Early Childhood Center students aims to shed a light on the importance of diversity through the “One World” celebration on March 8. The annual event encompassed a journey for students to explore the various cultures of more than 28 nations from across the world.

The Pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade students were given “passports” where they received a stamp at each country they visited. The booths were filled with food, flags, and symbols unique to the countries that were manned by parents. The specialty dishes included American hot dogs, Mexican tacos, Israeli falafels, Italian pasta, Chinese egg rolls and so much more.

The purpose of the event, which attracted more than 800 people in its sixth year, is to help the children to understand the diversity that exists within the community, and teach them the importance of love and acceptance.

It is, “an event to share native cultures, celebrate our similarities and teach our kids more about the world,” said English New Language teacher Kim Krokoff.

In the library, the children took part in crafts and activities such as making multicultural paper dolls, lanyards, and taking pictures in the photo booth. In the gym and auditorium, cultural performances such as the singing of “God Bless America” and a traditional Irish step dance by student Ella Ihay were performed.

“It is a great time for families to come together and celebrate their culture.” said Dr. Lorraine Smyth, the school’s principal. First-grader Harley Moritz said, “it’s about different cultures coming to our school, bringing food, performances, art projects and just getting a little piece of each person’s culture.”