On Thursday, April 20, 2010, the third graders took a trip to Alley Pond Park for the Festival of Cultures.  They were treated to several shows featuring music and dancing from cultures such as South American, Native American, and West African.  There was also a special show with Birds of Prey and an area where the children could observe and touch different animals such as turtles, rabbits, hedgehogs, and snakes.  The children were really engaged by the informative presentations.  A special highlight was when Mrs. Baruch, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. DeVita were called up twice to dance a special "Teacher's Dance" with both the Native American and West African performers.

Here’s what the children had to say about their experience.

My favorite thing was when we went to the West African show and the people who were performing taught us a special song that means “United”.  - Milana
My favorite part of the day was the birds of prey. Another favorite was when we got to pet the animals at the end. - Noah
Alley Pond was the best school trip I have ever had. I loved it!  - Oron
I really liked the West African performance because our teachers danced. I also liked the Native American show because the performer made so many cool things out of hoola hoops. - David
I liked the West African dancing and the Birds of Prey. It was awesome! - Elie
I loved the trip because there were so many things to see. One of my favorite parts was the petting zoo. I touched a rabbit, snake, mouse, iguana, turtle, beetle, frog, and hedgehog. They were so cute. I like the rabbit best because I used to have one. I had such a good time at Alley Pond Park.  - Niv
My day at Alley Pond Park was so much fun. We were able to see the yoyo demonstration, West African dancing, Native American dancing, Birds of Prey and the Latin American dancing. Thank you Mrs. DeVita!!!   - Eden