Recent assemblies in D-E’s Lower School (LS) and Middle School (MS) celebrated Arab, Persian, and Muslim heritage, including recognition of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, or the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," which marks the end of Ramadan. LS students first enjoyed hearing the 2012 smash hit “C’est La Vie” by Algerian singer Khaled, and then listened to fellow classmates as they shared their favorite aspects of these important holidays. Spending time together with family, expressing gratitude through gifts and support of charities, and showing acts of kindness were all mentioned. Another common theme heard was how students love both eating and sharing delicious, traditional treats, including baklava, borek, and sheer khurma. In the Middle School, students also spoke to other important observances such as Nowruz, the Persian New Year, celebrated on the first day of spring to “welcome a fresh start and new beginnings.” A spirited music trivia contest wrapped-up the MS assembly, in which students also learned fun facts about pop stars.  Did you know? The “A” in the name of SZA, a native of Maplewood, NJ,  stands for “Allah.” To all who celebrate: Eid Mubarek! 

When in Rome, do as the Romans do! This week Mr. Wallman’s 6th Grade History classes participated in their Rome Cultural Research Showcase in Hajjar Auditorium, attended by D-E families. The event, the culmination of intense Rome-related research, took the form of spoken presentations, live skits, mock trials, videos, models, dioramas, and trifolds. The goal was “creative demonstration of knowledge, collaboration skills, literacy, research skills… and most notably a comfort in oral presentation,” said Mr. Wallman. Students also exhibited attention to detail, such as the group that created handmade beaded jewelry, with the help of MS & US Librarian Ms. Sanford, as a nod to Minerva, known as the Roman goddess of wisdom, crafts, and the arts. Several groups dressed the part of ancient Romans in tunicas, togas, stolas, and pallas as they presented on topics including traditional attire, ancient health practices, the evolution of Roman law, the Gallic and Punic wars, the history of the Colosseum, and the reign of Roman Emperor Nero. Kudos to our 6th Graders for bringing Roman history to life!

The next installment of our community “Spotlight” series is an exploration of the Science Department—a natural fit as the season shifts to spring! “Science is all around us…