Cedar Hill Prep Celebrates Cultural Diversity at Annual Multicultural Night

SOMERSET, NJ — What does it mean to develop internationally minded students? At Cedar Hill Prep, an IB Candidate School, it means creating spaces where children don't just learn about global cultures—they experience them through their own classmates and families.

On October 24, the school's annual Multicultural Night brought together families representing 15 countries, demonstrating the IB learner profile in action. Students practiced being open-minded, caring, and principled as they explored traditions different from their own, asked thoughtful questions, and celebrated the rich diversity within their school community.

Learning Through Real-World Connections

Parents prepared authentic dishes from their cultural backgrounds—hoppers, chicken curry, flan, and dozens of traditional recipes—turning the evening into an inquiry-based exploration of global cuisines and family traditions. For students, it was more than a meal; it was a lesson in cultural appreciation that no textbook could replicate.

Traditional Indian dance performances showcased how cultural knowledge is preserved and passed down through generations, while a Parade of Nations allowed students to represent their families' countries of origin with pride.

Where Diversity Becomes Education

This is the IB philosophy in practice: students learning to be communicators and thinkers by engaging directly with different perspectives, risk-takers by trying unfamiliar foods, and reflective as they consider what identity and heritage mean in an interconnected world.

For children growing up between cultures, the event affirmed that their multilingual, multicultural identities aren't obstacles to overcome—they're assets that enrich the entire learning community. For all students, it planted seeds of global citizenship that will influence how they navigate an increasingly connected world.

At Cedar Hill Prep, diversity isn't just celebrated once a year—it's woven into daily learning, shaping students who are equipped to thrive in a global society.

Interested in an education that develops globally minded learners? Cedar Hill Prep, a preschool through grade 8 IB Candidate School, is currently accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. To schedule a tour and experience our community firsthand, visit www.cedarhillprep.com or call 732-356-5400 Ext 32.