Dear Families,
Please join students of Oak Park School District 97 in celebrating World Languages Day 2010, our 7th annual showcase of student language learning activities. This year World Languages Day will take place jointly with the 30th annual District 97 Ethnic Festival at Whittier School on Saturday, May 1, 2010.
The Ethnic Fest parade steps off at 10 and all families are invited to join in with the Whittier group. Just look for the Whittier banner or familiar faces along the parade staging area. After the parade, the day is filled with dance, music, food, hands-on activities and more.
Whittier students in grades K, 1, & 2 will join together to sing “Somos como las flores” and “Plátanos y manzanas.” Students in Grade 3 will sing “La vuelta” and “De colores.” Students in Grades 4/5 will present an original dance, and perhaps poetry readings, and puppet shows.
When students are not presenting, you and they are encouraged to participate in other activities around the festival. It is a very exciting time!
Time & Place: Whittier will present in the small tent from about 2:30-3:30 pm. Each Whittier group will have approximately 10 -15 minutes total time. We will start with the younger students and end with the “olders.” Students should meet Sra. Deaton at the tent about 5-10 minutes before their group is set to perform. Here’s the order (times are approximate):
2:30: Grades K-2: Somos como las flores; Plátanos y manzanas
2:45: Grade 3: De colores; La vuelta
3:00: Grade 4/5: Puppet show or poetry readings (**depending on students – may not take place and dance would be earlier)
3:15: Grade 4/5: Original Dance to “America Baila”
Clothing: With the exception of the 4/5 “America Baila” dancers, students may wear whatever they like. I would ask that you/they remember that they are proudly representing Whittier School and that clothing be neat and appropriate. (Yes, if they are coming from T-ball/softball/baseball/soccer, they can stay in uniform.)
4th/5th grade “America Baila” dancers will chose their own performance outfits, most likely bright T-shirts and jeans.
The year is fast coming to an end -- the younger students started their alphabet countdown yesterday! Check back here for more news about our May learning and events and during the summer for enrichment ideas and fun family activities.
I look forward to seeing you at the festival. Gracias for all you do to support your child's language learning.
Hasta pronto y gracias por todo,
Sra. Deaton
