Saturday, November 8, 2025
The Oyster Bay High School International Club and World Languages Honor Society hosted the district’s annual International Night on March 27, bringing together families from throughout the Oyster Bay-East Norwich School District for an evening of cultural celebration and culinary delights.
International Night is a tradition in the district, serving as both a fundraiser for the hosting organizations and a testament to the diversity within the school community. Proceeds from the event contribute to an annual scholarship awarded to two graduating seniors. The World Languages Honor Society is co-advised by Angela Kowalsky and Frances Sotiriou, while the International Club is led by Frances Sotiriou.
Held in the Oyster Bay High School cafeteria, the event featured festive decorations, including flags, maps and student projects from Theodore Roosevelt and Vernon Schools. These projects, titled I Treasure My Traditions and Culture, highlighted students’ favorite foods, holidays and customs, accompanied by drawings and photographs.
Informational brochures detailing facts from different cultures were placed around the room, while a large screen showcased music and dance performances from around the world. Younger children enjoyed interactive activities, such as coloring pages and maps, making the event engaging for all ages.
A highlight of the evening was the diverse array of food, generously donated by local restaurants and district families. Some major contributors included Harborside Deli, La Famiglia of Glen Cove, House of Dosas, Chocolishious of Locust Valley, and the Walsh, Arnella and Ani families for their contributions.
Another standout moment of the night was a captivating performance by three young dancers from McCabe Irish Dance School. They mesmerized the audience with five traditional Irish dances, adding an extra touch of cultural appreciation and entertainment to the evening.
The success of International Night was bolstered by the enthusiastic support of the administration and the parent teacher associations at Theodore Roosevelt and Vernon Schools. Their efforts in promoting the event to younger students and encouraging participation through cultural worksheets helped make the celebration even more inclusive.
