Dicken Elementary boasts a widely cultural student body.
Among its student population, there are 73 students from 31 different heritages — and 62 students speak a different language at home. So the Community of Cultures event on Friday was well accepted and enjoyed.
The event began with a parade of flags, designed by each class and carried by a student of that nationality. Following the flags were students dressed in traditional dress from various countries.
Three classes displayed their multi-cultural knowledge by performing songs in Chinese and Spanish.
Students were able to display their knowledge with a round of “Are You a Smart Fifth Grader,” Dicken’s own version of the popular television series. Twelve students were selected to answer questions such as “What country did Obama’s father originate from?” and “Didgeridoos are a wind instrument from which country?”
Students were even shown videos of a didgeridoo performer, as well as the Brazilian martial arts dance Capoeira.
The Dicken Elementary Community of Cultures event ended with a moving performance by fourth and fifth graders singing John Lennon’s “Imagine” and images from a Peace Book, pictures drawn by students showing what they do to feel at peace.
Patti Dorris, secretary to the principal at Dicken, said the assembly “was a great success.”
Jodie Bolinger is an Eastern Michigan University graduate with a double bachelor's in journalism and electronic media. Email her with events and news relating to Ann Arbor's West Side or visit her website.
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