Grand Prairie Students Participate In Holidays Around The World

FRANKFORT, IL — During the week of Dec. 14, students at Grand Prairie learned about Hanukah, Diwali, Eid, Kwanza, and Las Posadas during "Holidays Around the World." Students were given pretend passports and earned stamps after each lesson. According to school officials, this was a fun way for students to learn about different holiday traditions celebrated in the homes of their peers.

To celebrate Hanukah, kindergarten students in Karyn Hermes’ class learned how to spin a dreidel, watched videos about the Menorah, and colored pictures of the Star of David.

In P.E. class, Grand Prairie P.E. teacher Bard Borden led students in an activity to celebrate Diwali. A collection of Diwali music was played while students kept their balloon in the air with their paddle.

Michele Hannigan’s second grade class learned the Mexican Christmas week-long celebration Las Posadas, piñatas, and poinsettias. Second graders in Jennifer Elia’s class were taught about Eid. A student created a poster all about traditional food, dress, and Ramadan and taught her follow classmates via Zoom. Grand Prairie students learned about Kwanza and how a new candle is lit on the kinara each day.

"Holidays Around the World" is just one of the many ways Frankfort 157-C is committed to providing an environment that fosters inclusivity and promotes empathy, respect and acceptance, school officials said.