Senior Amela Cucovik (left) and her sister Ariana Cuca (right) representing Albanian culture.
Museum school hosted its 5th annual cultural night on June 5th. This year, more than 30 countries were represented at the event. The evening included tables representing various cultures and countries with samples of food, art, and informative displays. Many students dressed in their respective traditional cultural clothing. The school yard was filled with diversity and excitement from parents, students and faculty.
Cultural night was organized by activities coordinator, Ms. Rivera, who has taken up responsibilities from Ms. Sagonas, who is expected to be back next school year. Ms. Rivera also oversees student government which helped pull off this event as well.
When asked about the importance of holding cultural night each year Ms. River said, “because it is a celebration of our school’s diverse population and an opportunity to learn about the different cultures that make up Museum school.” Ms. Rivera stressed the significance of students being aware of the diversity within their school. In addition, she mentioned how Cultural Night “is also a community building event that helps bolster school spirit.”
Cultural Night 2024 was very successful. There were many more guests than expected and everyone seemed to have a great time. From spicy curry and dumplings, to delicate macarons and boba, the culinary dishes showcased the diverse heritage of countries represented prompting parent Cy Richardson to say that “The food was incredible.”
Parent Maneka Grewal applying henna to students.
In addition to the food, there were many cultural displays. Each table was decorated with artwork, flags and fun facts about the respective country. The highlight of the evening was the series of performances, including a cultural Albanian dance, French poetry, Jamaican spoken word, songs from the school band and a Caribbean dance from the Dance Club. Junior Karuna Biswas said, “It was clear that a lot of effort went into each performance,” expressing the opinions of many attendees. Each aspect of the event demonstrated the students’ hard work.
The student government was central in planning and carrying out the event, putting in many hours to make sure everything progressed without an issue. The event was a huge success because of their hard work. Ms. Rivera revealed that “Student Government began planning in January. The bulk of the planning took place from April-June.” She added that the logistics such as storing food, the set up and tech proved to be the hardest part of holding cultural night and that’s why she’s “so grateful for Ms. Marshall, Mrs. Ortiz, Ms. Williams, Mrs. Matelus, Mr. LaLena, AP Hindelong and 12th grader Katlyn Martins for lending a helping hand. I also have to shout out to all the members of the Student Government.”
