A Month of Connection, Learning, and Celebration
In October 2024, One World brought together 691 students from Westchester, New York, and their peers in Mexico and Ecuador to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through its Virtual Exchange Global Celebrations Program. These interactive sessions highlighted the power of sharing, learning, and celebrating together, fostering cultural awareness and lifelong connections.
Alice E. Grady School Kicks Off the Celebration
On October 2, Alice E. Grady School in Elmsford, NY, connected 247 students from grades 2, 5, and 6 with peers from Escuela Maria Enriqueta Camarillo y Roa in Nezahualcóyotl, Mexico. The exchange was filled with songs, stories, and cultural insights, as students explored each other’s traditions. Younger students asked thoughtful questions while older grades shared detailed presentations, sparking curiosity and building bridges of understanding.
Roosevelt Elementary Explores Vibrant Cross-Cultural Connections
On October 11, Roosevelt Elementary in Ossining, NY, hosted 375 fifth graders across four virtual sessions with 127 students from Guerrero and Nezahualcóyotl, Mexico. Mexican students shared colorful dances, legends, and traditional costumes, while Roosevelt students presented on their diverse cultural backgrounds, including traditions from Guatemala, Texas, and Ecuador. The event was a true celebration of shared heritage, culminating in discussions about unique customs and a mutual appreciation for each other’s cultures.
Mamaroneck Avenue School Joins the Global Community
On October 22, 42 students from Mamaroneck Avenue School’s Dos Caminos program connected with classrooms in Guerrero, Mexico, and Cuenca, Ecuador. The students collaborated on presentations highlighting the influence of Hispanic culture in New York while their international peers showcased traditional foods, local festivities, and cultural landmarks. The colorful and dynamic exchanges left both students and teachers inspired, deepening their appreciation for global connections.
Throughout October, One World’s Virtual Exchange Program demonstrated the profound impact of bringing students together from across the globe. By sharing traditions, stories, and celebrations, these exchanges nurtured understanding, cultural curiosity, and lifelong friendships.
Through its Global Connections Program, One World continues to create opportunities for students to see the world through each other’s eyes, fostering a generation of global citizens who celebrate diversity and unity.
