LISS students take part in Cultural Week Appreciation

Over a hundred students of Ladera International School of Saipan took part in its Inaugural Cultural Week Appreciation that showcased the school’s various ethic origins and cultures.

In the final activity Wednesday, students wowed judges and spectators with their creative decorations and presentations highlighting the uniqueness of 12 chosen cultures—Japanese, Filipino, Thai, Mexican, Chinese, American, Germany, Carolinian, French, Italian, Canadian, and Korean.

LISS principal and director Wayne Pangelinan disclosed that the objective of Cultural Week Appreciation is to widen each student’s understanding and appreciation of various cultures.

LISS is home to 135 students. As an international school, the principal described the current population as a very diverse group.

Genevie Angeles, the school’s event coordinator, said it took the classes two weeks to prepare everything for the final presentation.

Besides demographic information, each class also wore traditional costumes of selected cultures, a sampling of the country’s native foods, a showcase of remarkable inventions, and demonstrations of popular games and dances.

Wednesday’s final activity served as a competition among grade levels.

Emerging best among the entries was the presentation made by sixth graders who showcased the German culture through the guidance of their own German teacher, Connie Nakamura.

Nakamura’s family heirlooms were among the best displays, according to judges.

The teacher said her personal knowledge about German culture made her students more enthusiastic and interested in the presentation.

Twelve-year-old Irvyn M. Malonzo said he was amazed at the “uniqueness and richness” of the German culture.

“I enjoyed looking at all the German stuff we displayed….and they’re amazing,” Malonzo said, citing the “cuckoo clock” as a truly remarkable invention.

Named second best was the presentation made by the Kindergarten class, which showcased the American culture. Students displayed popular American games, costumes, and food.

Presenters of the Philippine culture emerged as third best in Wednesday’s competition.

Fourteen-year-old Jane Rhee said that by doing the activity, one developed camaraderie, friendship, and harmonious relationships with their peers. Rhee’s class presented the French culture.

Third grade teacher Susan Satur said the activity provides students the opportunity to “learn” and “travel” to various destinations and places all at the same time.