Ceol performed traditional Irish music.
Each year, students at Emerson Elementary School are immersed in a world cultural experience that goes beyond their normal magnet school curriculum for International Education Week. This year, International Education Week was held from November 13 - 17.
Early in the week, students from all grades performed folk dances from around the world with guidance from their music teacher, Mary-Rebekah Fortman. The performances included dances from the United States, England, Jamaica, Croatia and other places.
Music played a big part in this year’s festivities. Most notable was a performance by a local Irish band, Ceol. Westerville teacher Mick Broderick brought along two other musicians to perform for the whole school. The three bandmates taught students about their unique music and the instruments they use.
Pupils also “traveled” to many different countries right in their own classrooms. Speakers from around the world came to Emerson and represented their home countries by giving presentations about their cultures and heritages. Children learned about traditional food, dress, customs, and other important points from countries like: Nepal, Brazil, Somalia, Denmark, China, and Australia, to name a few.
Renowned storyteller Robbi Kumalo joined in as well, telling a traditional African tale of how the turtle got its shell. She gave a dynamic performance using songs, instruments, and animated expression.
The favorite finale of the week was the International Feast. Two tables (and one allergy-free table) were set up featuring delicious samples of food from around the world, including Latkes, Brazilian chicken, Chinese dumplings, Korean beef, and British and Scandinavian desserts.