For the Reporter
Park Orchard Elementary School recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, setting an attendance record for a school event.
The school’s Golden Jubilee, which coincided with its annual multi-cultural night on Jan. 31, featured students and families sharing their cultural heritage with specially crafted displays, authentic food from their country of origin and entertainment from throughout the world. More than 550 parents, students, community members, and former and current staff attended.
“Students and staff had been looking forward to the event, and I was so pleased to see how students’ families came out to celebrate with us,” said Principal Eric Richards. “Families are a key ingredient to the success of our students, and it was a great opportunity to involve them in our school celebration.”
The theme, “One World, One School,” celebrated the school’s diverse population, which has changed significantly since its beginning 50 years ago, when the school served a quiet rural community.
Around the gymnasium, where the event took place, were cultural displays, developed by students to represent their heritage. Students had worked on them during recess and at home. Entertainment included the Kentridge High School Bollywood Dance Team and music by bagpiper Bruce Corns.
Local restaurants contributed to the celebration, including El Charro, El Rinconsito, Mexico Lindo, Basil Garden, Azteca, Old Country Buffet, Punjab Sweets, Benson Pizza, and Paolo’s Italian.
The evening concluded with the cutting of a specially designed birthday cake, decorated with designs by students reflecting the night’s theme.
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