Fort Couch marks International Education Week with cultural activities

The annual event is led by the school’s world language teachers: Erin Lemon, Kristin Weaver, Maria Marchionna and Kelly Lee. The goal of IEW is to promote global understanding and cultural exchange by providing opportunities for students to explore diverse cultures.

“One key aspect of IEW is exposing students to the rich traditions of music and dance from around the world, allowing them to appreciate and experience the artistic expressions of different societies,” Ms. Weaver said. “Through these activities, students gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, fostering a more inclusive and interconnected world.”

Activities included learning Chinese calligraphy and greetings, Japanese paper folding and greetings, Indian dance with Nandanik Dance Studio, West African drum and dance with Yamoussa Camara, Chinese dance with the Yanlai Dance Academy, African dance with members of the University of Pittsburgh Ya’baso Dance Team, Samba dance from the Lua Dance Club, Croatian and Romanian dance with the Bulgarian Macedonian Cultural Center, African drum and dance from the Legacy Arts Project, and Salsa and Bachata with Cross Body Dance and Movement. In addition, students participated in a virtual show and tell with Upper St. Clair students who have lived abroad.

While the Fort Couch students enjoyed all of the different activities, the Ya’baso African Dance Team from the University of Pittsburgh was especially engaging.

“The instructors were college students, so our students found them relatable and had a lot of questions about their studies at Pitt and how they got involved with African dance,” Ms. Lemon said. “The choreography was high energy and was also quite challenging, so the students felt a huge sense of accomplishment when they were able to master it. Later in the day, we saw students showing their friends the African dance they had learned.”

IEW provides an opportunity to promote understanding and inclusivity by exposing students to different cultures.

“Through activities like music, dance, and discussions, students learn about the traditions and values of people from around the world,” Ms. Weaver said. “This helps reduce stereotypes and fosters respect for diversity.” 

By participating in IEW, the world language teachers hope that students gain a broader perspective, become more aware of cultural differences, and develop a greater sense of empathy.

“Overall, IEW helps create a more inclusive environment, preparing students to engage with and appreciate the diversity of our global society,” Ms. Weaver said. “Ultimately, we hope students leave with a stronger sense of global awareness and a readiness to engage with others in an inclusive, respectful manner, both in their local communities and on the broader world stage.”