Sierra Canyon's World Languages Week united both campuses in a vibrant celebration of global cultures through cuisine, music, performances, and interactive experiences.
On the Lower Campus, students embraced the theme of friendship by learning the word "friend" in various languages. During recess, their exploration of global traditions began with Portuguese, where they delved into the country's history and sampled traditional cuisine. The celebration continued with an immersive experience in Persian culture through Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Students enjoyed Persian music, observed a dancer demonstrating traditional steps, and learned about the historical significance of the holiday. The week concluded with a focus on Hindi, one of the world's oldest languages with origins dating back to 1500 BCE, as students explored its linguistic and cultural heritage.
On the Upper Campus, students participated in a diverse array of cultural experiences, beginning with a tasting of international snacks from China and Brazil. They then explored traditional Chinese artistry in the Lacquer Fan Painting Workshop, followed by a highly anticipated French crêpe station that quickly sold out. Embracing Mexican folk art's vibrant tradition, students participated in a Paint Your Own Alebrije project, creating colorful, fantastical creatures. They also experimented with mosaic design, drawing inspiration from ancient Libyan and Moroccan styles. The week concluded with the World Languages Quiz Bowl, where students tested their knowledge of global languages and cultures. Reflecting on the experience, Lucy F. '27 shared, "World Languages Week is my favorite week of the year."
A highlight of the week was the remarkable cross-divisional presentations on Wednesday, which brought together students from both campuses to celebrate language and performance. Lower Campus students traveled across De Soto to the Upper Campus, where they showcased their talents. The Lower Campus Orchestra and Choir delighted the audience with performances, including Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star, sung in French, Spanish, Latin, and English, as well as a rendition of De Colores. Upper Campus students took the stage to demonstrate their linguistic and theatrical skills. Maggie D. '27 and Sinead S. '25 performed a scene from La Malade Imaginaire (The Imaginary Invalid) in English, while Oliver G. '28 and Jake B. '29 brought classical Latin to life with a scene from Miles Gloriosus (The Braggart Soldier).
To conclude World Languages Week, Upper Campus students gathered for an International Luncheon, enjoying a diverse selection of over 18 cuisines from around the world. Meanwhile, on the Lower Campus, the first of two Music and Spanish assemblies commenced, featuring performances by Kindergarten, 2nd, 4th, and 6th Grade students. Through songs such as "Buenos Días," "Make a Difference," and "Somewhere Only We Know," students showcased their musical talents while celebrating their language learning journey.
World Languages Week is one of Sierra Canyon's most cherished signature programs, providing a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the diverse voices that unite us as a community.
A very special thank you to Dani Olsen (River '32 and Sierra '34), Bita Van Gilder (Cameron '32 and Aiden '33), Poopeh Sigari (Soren '30 and Darien '35), and the Parents of Asian Pacific Islanders (PAPIS) for their contributions. We also thank our Parent Association and the DEI Cultural Celebrations Committee for their leadership and coordination of activities and volunteers, including the Upper Campus luncheon. Your efforts made World Languages Week a memorable celebration!
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