CO-LEADING A CULTURE FAIRBy: Olivia Shen
PHASE I – LEADERSHIP PROFILE
• I possess a democratic leadership style.
• I have had the most experiences with collaborating, sharing ideas, helping, and providing resources to my colleagues.
• I ultimately want teachers and others to make their own decisions without feeling forced or coerced.
• I like to make suggestions and provide explanations for my suggestions.
• I am always open to sharing ideas and receiving feedback.
• I enjoy conversing with colleagues and peers and sharing strategies and results.
PHASE II – PROJECT DESCRIPTION
• I was asked to co-lead the creation of a Culture Fair at Lebanon Road Elementary School that happened March 11
• I worked with approximately 15 other teachers on the committee.• Mainly, I worked directly with the co-leader of the committee because I am
not an employee of the school. She served as my spokesperson to the committee and appropriately shared my thoughts and ideas amongst the group.
• Committee members helped with creating signage/posters promoting the Culture Fair and creating and distributing handouts for the fair.
• Letters were sent home to parents/guardians asking for parental involvement in the fair – we received over 15 replies that showed interest.• Many volunteers brought in food and artifacts to share and display in the fair
GOALS OF THE CULTURE FAIR
• Promote Global Awareness
• Encourage Tolerance
• Teach Acceptance of Differences
• Inform guests and participants of the various cultures found in the school and around the world
• Involve parents and community members in the Culture Fair
PHASE III – IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECT
• The Culture Fair was held Tuesday, March 11, from 6:00-7:30 pm in the gym/cafeteria area of Lebanon Road Elementary School.
• Upon arrival, guests were greeted by volunteers, given a “passport” and asked to sign in.
PHASE III – IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECT
• This is the “Passport” handed out at the fair. • Over 12 countries/Cultures were represented at the fair.
PHASE III – IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECT
This is a photo of me hosting my Cultural Booth on India. I brought in many artifacts, a poster with facts about India, Indian food, and wore a traditional Indian Sari.
PHASE III – IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECTThis photograph is of a display hosted by the family of a Nicaraguan student. The student is seen wearing traditional Nicaraguan clothing, while a volunteer serves Nicaraguan food. This booth also included Nicaraguan artifacts.
PHASE III – IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECT• Below are photographs of 2 surveys taken by guests at the fair. This survey
contained questions asking about the overall effect and enjoyment of the fair, and any additional suggestions were welcomed and encouraged.
• The answers provided on the surveys will be used to help improve the school’s next Culture Fair.
THE IMPACT• Not only did guests gain global awareness, but this event
became a familial event that brought families closer. • The Culture Fair became a night where families came together at
the school to share their cultures and learn about other cultures found within the school and around the world. • Many students and guests tried ethnic cuisine brought by
volunteers, as well as asked many questions. • Many stereotypical myths, cultural history, and facts were
discussed amongst the different cultural displays hosted by parents, families, and volunteers.