West End Elementary School students celebrated Diversity Week with a variety of culturally-driven activities from April 8-12. Coordinated by the West End Diversity Committee, the goal of the week was to help students develop a positive self-concept by providing knowledge about the histories, cultures and contributions of diverse groups.

To kick off the week, classes watched a video of Principal Dr. Cindy Lee reading “Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña. The story channeled the theme of diversity. During the week, a poem about diversity was read over the morning announcements each day and students learned several dances from Mexico with the PTA sponsored assembly, Viva Mexico! The Calpulli Mexican Dance Company amazed students with their beautiful costumes during the assembly and different dances which students were able to participate in. West End students also completed homework assignments which aimed to strengthen their understanding of their own heritage. 

Towards the end of the fun-filled week, students were encouraged to attend school wearing clothing which represented their heritage. That evening, the school hosted International Story Night to celebrate students’ cultures. Students visited classrooms where they enjoyed stories about different countries and people.