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Cascade Locks class
explores world cultures
Photo by RaeLynn
Ricarte
Standing before a wall
full of dragon masks made by children, Hannah Coe, left, and
Araya Munoz, both age 5, test the sleeve spans on their
traditional Oriental clothing before visiting other classrooms
on China Day. |
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By RAELYNN RICARTE
News staff writer
February 8, 2006
“Gung Hay Fat Choy,” chorused Cascade Locks kindergarteners on
Friday as they paraded behind dragon masks through neighboring
classrooms.
The 15 students had learned the Chinese translation for “Happy
New Year” from teacher Joeinne Caldwell. They enthusiastically
delivered the message while wearing traditional Oriental
costumes that had been sewn by Linnea Masters, special education
instructor.
“We live in an isolated area and I want them to feel open and
excited about other people and other cultures,” said Caldwell.
After making a visit to every classroom in the school, the
kindergarten students were treated to seven Chinese specialty
dishes. Parent Angela Coe, a chef at Multnomah Falls, served
them Mandarin chicken, vegetable lorraine, soft shell crabs,
spare ribs, cashew chicken, shrimp wrappers and sticky rice.
This year, Caldwell has focused on providing her young charges
with a variety of cultural enrichment experiences. In September
the kindergarten class dressed up for Hawaiian Day and explored
India in October.
Caldwell said the “visit” to each country includes education on
the native traditions — and authentic foods.
She usually invites other classrooms to enjoy the meal since
that provides her students with an opportunity to learn how to
be “proper hosts and hostesses.”
“I want them to be aware that there is a big world out there. I
think that is so important,” said Caldwell.
In March, the Cascade Locks kindergarten class will voyage to
Ireland and in May will catch a glimpse of Mexico. The school
year will end in June with an Italian feast. |
