Middle School Students Explore Cultures Through Food Lens

The dining hall was filled recently with enticing aromas of diverse culinary delights as the Middle School community came together to pass the plate and enjoy food from around the world during the fourth annual Cultural Food Assembly.

The assembly was hosted by the Middle School Diversity Club and its faculty advisors Allison Enhrenreich and Jose Martinez. Members of the Diversity Club brought in dishes and desserts representative of their heritage, and their classmates were able to try new cuisine all while learning from one another about different cultures. The menu included, but not limited to, butter chicken and rice, naan, empanadas, zaatar croissants, stewed pork ribs and potatoes, spring rolls, kugel, Italian pastries, and much more.

Ms. Ehrenreich and Mr. Martinez advised the students to not be afraid to try food they’re not familiar with and ask questions about the different dishes. As the students made their ways to the food tables, they all took some time to read the notes placed in front of each dish that explained the type of food, its ingredients, and the significance of the dish to the student’s culture.

Following the assembly, all the students were asked to fill out an exit form questionnaire asking what their favorite dish was, if they tried any new dish and what it was, what they learned about their classmates’ background and heritage, and what did they enjoy the most about the event.