Families of students at North Windy Ridge Intermediate experienced an adventure abroad without ever leaving the school.
Recently, 5th grade Dual Language students presented a Chilean Cultural Experience to showcase their learning of the history of Chile, cultural dances, arts and crafts of the region, and some cultural cuisine.
“This event serves as a consolidation of the Dual Language students' work throughout their years learning Spanish and Latino Cultures,” said Dual Language teacher Teresa Ulloa. “With the Chilean Cultural Event, they were able to show their skills in Spanish, build their own exhibition of representative elements from Chile and become immersed with a culture through dance, one of the most common practices of any child in Chile.”
Guests had a chance to sample traditional Chilean dishes. Smiling students served sopaipillas - fried dough that can be eaten sweet with dulce de leche and caramel, or salty with ketchup, mustard, or mayo.
“It is a very traditional type of bread we eat in Chile and it was made by my husband who belongs to the Mapuche people, the biggest indigenous group in Chile,” Ms. Ulloa shared. “He used a simple, yet very old recipe which comes from centuries ago.”
Students worked for weeks practicing Chilean dances to share with their families.
“Thanks to my students for being the bravest and most open-minded group of individuals,” Ms. Ulloa said. “Thanks to their parents for always being there and helping to make this possible. I’m grateful to Principal Sellers and the North Windy Ridge school community for welcoming me and giving me the opportunity to share my culture with this amazing group of people.”
