CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Booker T. Washington STEM Academy buzzed with international excitement on April 26, 2024, as Illinois Extension hosted a vibrant Cultural Day celebration for elementary students.

“Many of our families expressed a desire for their cultures to be represented in our cultural celebrations at the school,” says Booker T. Washington STEM Academy STEM Science Coordinator and Coach Jenny Jamison. “We began discussing a day like today where other cultures could be celebrated, and students could learn various cultural components.”

A long term project

Planning for the cultural day was a long process, starting with Extension attending the family conferences last school year. From there, Extension staff sent home a survey to families to see what cultures were present in the community and to learn about the traditions that the students experienced at home.

"We wanted to assure that the activities would not stereotype the culture but truly represent them authentically,” says Jamison. “The foods and activities were chosen strategically. Everything today was from the data they collected in those forms."

Second through fifth-grade classrooms were transformed into miniature cultural hotspots, each showcasing a different region with engaging activities. Music filled the halls, setting the mood for a global adventure.

South Korea's station offered a taste of tradition with "Gonggi," a game similar to jacks, and a challenging chopstick activity. Students were also delighted with a delicious Korean snack. A journey to North Africa and the Middle East unfolded in another classroom, where students explored the art of Arabic calligraphy by writing their names in the beautiful script. They then took a trip back in time with a 3D pyramid craft, followed by a tasty sample of hummus and carrots. West Africa came alive with the sounds of drums and lively music. Students got crafty and explored the region's artistic expression through a unique West African-inspired project. To complete the immersive experience, they enjoyed a delicious African peanut soup. Traveling to Central America, Mexico and Guatemala offered a sensory explosion. Students sampled fruits drizzled with the tangy spice of Tajin, a popular Mexican condiment. They also got creative with a Day of the Dead craft, commemorating the vibrant Mexican holiday. The room pulsed with Cumbia music and dance energy, transporting students to the heart of Latin American culture.

"I think having the students that are not only in the culture see themselves authentically displayed, but I think all of the other students being able to experience it from people that do have the talent and the knowledge to teach about their culture is great,” continues Jamison. “That authentic delivery of information has been really cool for me to see. Those natural, cultural things we typically don't see or have not seen in this building have come to life today.”

The day was a delightful adventure for Booker T. Washington STEM Academy students, fostering a spirit of cultural appreciation and exploration within the school walls.

"I'm so thankful for the community and the Extension office and for all of the volunteers who came here today to bring this activity to life. Having students and volunteers coming together in that capacity is what's going to bring the most rewarding memories to the day."