They are the world, they are the children in RVC

The staff and students of Watson Elementary School have devoted this year to becoming familiar with the diverse and varied people of the world. The goal of ”We Are the World, We Are the Children,” is to develop understanding and tolerance for other cultures.

The program began with an International Parade of Nations, during which staff members dressed in authentic costumes. Kindergarten children learned about the importance of understanding children in the world who live in faraway places. Through art, song and literature, they learned the value of peace on our planet.

First grade students researched childhood rites of passage around the globe, such as losing a tooth, attending school, and even celebrating New Year. Local author Eve Feldman visited first graders to discuss how birthdays are celebrated around the world as well.

Second graders read folk tales from around the world and even video-conferenced with the Philadelphia Museum of Art to explore art and artifacts from other cultures. Third graders enhanced their social studies curriculum by exploring the food, music, art, literature and language of China, Australia, Sweden and Italy. They skyped with a former classmate who now lives in Sweden and they learned the Mexican hat dance through a videoconference.

Fourth grade students constructed musical instruments from the Caribbean, Africa and Mexico. They determined and wrote about the importance of peace on this planet, and the need for people of diverse cultures to live side by side in harmony.

The fifth grade’s study of immigration led to a greater understanding of the roots of the people who live in the United States today. Their investigation was supplemented by a video conference with Ellis Island Museum curators and with first- hand accounts of the immigration experience.

The year has included all of these activities — and more —and on April 8 the students shared their enthusiasm and knowledge with family and friends on Visitors’ Day. Children sang in other languages, danced and performed to the rhythm of international music and presented their research to an enthralled audience. The yearlong initiative was funded by the Rockville Centre Education Foundation and the Watson School PTA, and school staff members say they are grateful for the ongoing support.