Garapan, San Antonio schools celebrate cultural diversity

 Hundreds of students from Garapan and San Antonio elementary schools ended their celebration of Cultural Heritage Week yesterday with grand festivities that attracted large crowds to their respective campuses.

As early as 8am, students of both schools were seen enjoying the various presentations and demonstrations-all highlighting several nations’ culture and traditions.

At Garapan Elementary School, spectators gathered at the school grounds to witness song and dance presentations of each grade class.

Kindergarten pupils wowed the audience with a demonstration on Asian culture while first graders gave a rendition of the Palauan culture. The Federated States of Micronesia’s heritage was presented by the second grade class, while third graders proudly showed the Chamorro heritage. Fourth, fifth, and sixth graders showcased Filipino, South Pacific, and Carolinian cultures.

The school has been celebrating Cultural Week since Monday, Oct. 17, as part of the wider observance of Cultural Heritage Month in October.

The celebration kicked off with the Traditional Headgear/Hat Day, when students came to school sporting headpieces that showcase their culture such as mwar, straw hat, coconut hat, and others. Tuesday was designated as GES Cultural Attire Day while Wednesday was Ornaments/Accessories Day. On Thursday, students brought to class items that represent their culture for “show and tell.”

Sixth-grader Samantha Ciara Tengco told Saipan Tribune that she is always excited about Culture Week as helps her and her classmates better understand and appreciate other cultures and traditions.

“I love making beads so every year, I always make it a point to visit this booth [bead-making booth]. Colorful costumes and dances were amazing too,” she said.

Fourth-grader Karl Codog, who was seen visiting the arts and crafts booth, said the weeklong celebration always teaches her additional knowledge and skills. She, too, loves making beads and mwars and is always amazed by the traditional arts and crafts.

This year’s Cultural Day theme at GES-“A rainbow full of different colors that shine as one”-was won by first graders during the theme-writing competition held early this month.

According to school counselor Derwin Johnson, GES’ annual cultural celebration promotes respect, appreciation, and understanding of the diverse culture of the school.

At San Antonio Elementary School, the occasion was highlighted by the special performance of guest artist Parker Yobei. Since Monday, students have been participating in the weeklong occasion through “Greet Day,” “Show and Tell Day,” “Mwar Mwar Day,” “Flower Day,” and “Traditional Dress Day.”