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.