STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The gymnasium buzzed with music and the aroma of various cuisines as St. Ann School showcased 15 countries at its annual International Day Fair on Thursday, a cultural celebration that highlighted student research and global awareness during Catholic Schools Week.
Students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades selected countries to study and created immersive cultural experiences for their school community. The Dongan Hills school event featured traditional food and beverages from each represented country, native attire worn by presenting students, and interactive PowerPoint presentations in the gymnasium. The presentations include historical facts, geography highlights, and cultural insights from the countries students researched.
During the school day, students explored the fair and learn from their peers’ presentations. The afternoon session welcomed parents, siblings, friends, and community members.
“We are incredibly proud of the hard work and enthusiasm our students bring to the International Fair each year,” said Bernadette Ficchi, principal at St. Ann School. “It’s a wonderful learning experience that broadens their minds and their perspective as they get to know the cultures of other people. This event not only encourages academic research but also promotes cultural understanding, empathy, and curiosity about the world. Catholic Schools Week is all about community, faith, and being respectful, and this is what this International Day Fair is all about.”
Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story based on school data. It was reviewed and edited by Advance/SILive.com staff.