Date: Fri 19-Jun-1998

Publication: Bee

Author: MICHEL

Quick Words:

middle-school-sixth-diversity

Full Text:

Finding Diversity In The Sixth Grade Classroom

(with cuts)

BY MICHELE HOGAN

Researching one's roots has never been more appealing, than when Georgia Batey

had the sixth grade students prepare traditional foods to accompany their

studies.

From Italy to Germany, Spain to Ireland, students discovered more diversity in

their heritage than they had known. One girl, who had always considered

herself Irish, found that she had Spanish ancestry as well.

Mrs Batey said that after honoring African cultures, the students asked her if

they could study their own ethnic background next.

The students wrote about their country's location, influences of neighboring

countries, and their country's traditional music and art.

Lana Van, whose parents are from Vietnam, wrote beautiful poetry about Vietnam

and freedom.

Judy Fishman, parent, said "Mrs Batey is an incredible teacher. She's had a

running theme throughout the year showing students that differences between

people are wonderful, and should be celebrated."