Cross-cultural celebration enjoyed at La Paloma Elementary

FALLBROOK – La Paloma Elementary had been looking forward to hosting a visit from its “sister school,” Instituto Metropolitano, located in Tijuana, B.C., on Dec. 5. The two schools were paired up by Sister Schools of San Diego four years ago with the commencement of Fallbrook Union Elementary School District’s dual immersion program.

Although, the sister school was unable to come due to economic issues, the event went on. The parents, teachers, and students of the kindergarten, first, second, and third grade dual immersion program spent the day together.

The day began with students and parents working together to create ornaments and gingerbread houses. This was followed by a Spanish performance of “The Gingerbread Man” with the sets and costumes built and painted by parent volunteers.

The students then sang holiday songs in Spanish for everyone who attended the event. The festival concluded with the parents donating lunch for everyone to share together in celebration of the dual language program.

“This festival was a wonderful opportunity for our kids to demonstrate the Spanish skills they have been learning all year,” said mother/volunteer Susan Liebes. “You could see how proud they were to perform. It was great to see them have fun.”