“First Spanish Speaking Countries Festival: 2014

Promoting Cultural Awareness” by Maria Barreto

In my personal point of view, learning a language should not only focus on grammar
and acquiring linguistics skills but also on getting to know the culture of the language
and its people. Throughout my years of language learning and teaching I’ve found that
diversity it’s the engine that drives human communication and exchange.

The idea of a hosting a festival at my school came after thinking of ways to promote and
embrace diversity, respect, team work, and commitment around the school. Carrying
out the festival became an opportunity to get students, staff, community, and parents
involved in a common project.

Kids were thrilled with the idea, but scared to present their projects. The festival allowed
the kids to experience planning, preparation and execution of an event from first hand.
They were the creators and the faces of the First Festival held in the school. This
activity aimed at reaching all students whereas it was by presenting or attending the
event. We were pleased to have EC students participating with the support of their peer
helpers and teachers.

With hard work and the support of our sponsors the ‘First Spanish Speaking Countries
Festival’ took place on April 17, 2014. Students learned and explored the culture of the
countries they chose. They proudly presented their findings to our guests, and they
created games to challenge guests’ knowledge and attention during their presentations.

Seven countries were represented: Venezuela, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Spain,

Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Students attending the Festival came in by group
levels: 6th, 7th and 8th grade. After the presentations each group level was invited to the
food station to get a treat that represented some of the countries presented. Thanks to
the help of our sponsors: La Ribera, Yerbabuena, Plaza Ateca, Chicos and Mi Cabana
restaurants and Walmart, students the food tasting station was a success.

The Spanish Class and all presenter thanked dearly our Encore teachers who during
the event and its preparation provided support to the kids. Counselors, homeroom
teachers and school staff were also involved. It was a very successful way to talk about
diversity and identity. In my opinion, a well done job by the kids who demonstrated they
are preparing for a global diverse world.

Jaguar Pride!
 “First Spanish Speaking Countries Festival: 2014

Promoting Cultural Awareness” by Maria Barreto

Pictures of the Event

Passport Booklet Treat Bags

Passport Booklet Nicaragua/ Parents

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 “First Spanish Speaking Countries Festival: 2014

Promoting Cultural Awareness” by Maria Barreto

Venezuela Colombia

Dominican Republic Spain

Mexico Puerto Rico

 “First Spanish Speaking Countries Festival: 2014

Promoting Cultural Awareness” by Maria Barreto

Attendees/Guests Mrs. Christian(AP), Mrs Harris(8th grade

Homeroom teacher and Spain Station
Supervisor, and Mr. Cannon (Principal)

Our Sponsors Food Station

La Ribera Restaurant in Greenville,NC

 “First Spanish Speaking Countries Festival: 2014

Promoting Cultural Awareness” by Maria Barreto

Yerbabuena Restaurant in Greenville NC Ice cream

Celebrating Our First Festival

8th grade at the food Station Chicos Chips and Salsa

 “First Spanish Speaking Countries Festival: 2014

Promoting Cultural Awareness” by Maria Barreto