Cultural experiences of any sort are always such a marvelous event for the giver and the receiver. Such was the experience in 4D for the Chinese New Year. The class did not know what to expect. A time was set. The event was planned by the parents. It was with some surprise when the classroom door was opened to find a very large group of parents gathered. In they came with an explanation of Chinese traditions, activities for the children to do, a SMART board presentation, a demonstration of martial arts, a musical interlude, and a new cultural awareness for children and teacher alike. It
Chinese Spring Festival class 4d To kick off Spring, 4D experienced Chinese customs first hand from martial arts to traditional Chinese art.
was a sunny day. The class was able to gather on the steps outside for a photograph of the occasion. There are now more new Chinese families in 4D than there have ever been since the first child came across that threshold in 1997. We have seen them embrace Collingwood’s 4-stranded culture with a fervor and passion that is often absent from those students who have been at the school for a long time. One child in 4D attended the Grade VI/VII concert to raise money for the disaster in the Philippines. Many are actively engaged in co-curricular activities both artistic and athletic. They are all actively engaged in pursuing excellence in whatever task they tackle. Two students are competitive level pianists. The current influx of Chinese students to Collingwood and 4D has added respect, humour and care to our community. Even this teacher has even considered trying to learn some Mandarin! Having parents come in to share their Chinese traditions was a true testament to the quality of families that we have at Collingwood; families who believe in sharing their lives with the Collingwood community and making it a richer place to learn. Peter Davidson, 4D Teacher