In the multicultural neighborhood of Jackson Heights, Queens, a small Greek Saturday School is playing an important role in preserving the Greek language and cultural heritage for young students growing up in New York City.
Every Saturday, students attend a three-hour program at the Greek Orthodox church of Sts. Constantine and Helen, where they study the Greek language, Greek history, Greek culture, and Greek mythology.
The school offers different groups based on age and language level: a class for younger students who are beginning to learn Greek, a more advanced class for students who already have a foundation in the language, and a class specifically designed for students preparing for the Ellinomatheia, the Greek Language Certification.
What makes this program unique is its small size and individualized approach. Teachers are able to give personal attention to each student and closely monitor their academic progress.
The Principal, Ms. Meropi Kyriacou points out the goal is not only for students to learn how to read and write in Greek, but also to understand the history, traditions, and cultural identity connected to the language.
Students learn about important moments in Greek history, traditions, and celebrations, and the rich world of Greek mythology, discovering stories, values, and ideas that have influenced civilization for thousands of years. Through language and culture, students develop a deeper understanding of their heritage and a stronger connection to their identity.
Located in one of the most diverse areas of New York City, this Greek Saturday School is more than just a place of learning. It is a small community that keeps the Greek language and culture alive. Families and teachers work together to create an environment where students feel proud of their heritage while growing and succeeding academically.
In a busy and multicultural city like New York, this small school in Jackson Heights shows that when a community cares about its language and culture, it can pass it on successfully to the next generation, one Saturday at a time.
For families interested in joining, the school welcomes new students who would like to learn the Greek language and become part of this special community. For more information, please email the School Board at: [email protected]
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