The French American Academy recently held its annual Community Day, a vibrant celebration of diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility. This year’s event, coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, provided a unique opportunity for students, parents, and staff to come together and reflect on the importance of equity and community in our increasingly interconnected world.
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A Morning of Reflection and Collaboration
The day began with an inspiring Morning Meeting, where students and parents gathered to listen to excerpts from Dr. King’s powerful speeches. The school’s commitment to fostering a global perspective was evident as greetings were exchanged in various languages, highlighting the rich tapestry of cultures within the FAA community.
In the elementary grades, students and families engaged in a thought-provoking discussion centered around Norman Rockwell’s painting “The Problem We All Live With.” This activity encouraged students and parents to critically think about historical issues of segregation and racism, while also prompting reflection on current societal challenges.



Learning Through Interactive Experiences
Throughout the morning, classrooms buzzed with energy as students and parents participated in a variety of activities designed to promote understanding and empathy:
- Unity Handprint Mural: Families created a colorful mural symbolizing unity in diversity, which now proudly adorns the school’s walls.
- “Community Heroes” Mini-Museum: First-grade students showcased their research on influential figures like Gandhi, Mother Teresa, and Malala Yousafzai, presenting their findings to parents and peers.
- Dream Big Crafts: Inspired by trailblazers like Mae Jemison and Martin Luther King Jr., students crafted visual representations of their own dreams for the future.
- Community work: Our middle school students embraced Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through a day of learning and action. They explored civil rights themes in Math, French, and Humanities classes, gaining deeper insights into stereotypes, bias, and Dr. King’s message. The day also included hands-on community service, with students participating in street cleaning and supporting the York Street Project. These activities not only honored Dr. King’s memory but also empowered students to make a tangible difference in their community, embodying the spirit of active citizenship.



The French American Academy also featured a powerful and educational Rosa Parks reenactment performed by the younger students. This engaging activity brought history to life, allowing children to step into the shoes of this civil rights icon and understand the significance of her brave actions. By recreating the pivotal moment when Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat, students gained a tangible connection to the civil rights movement and its enduring impact on society. The reenactment not only educated the young participants but also captivated the audience, including parents who joined in to witness this meaningful portrayal of a crucial moment in American history. Such interactive learning experiences help foster empathy, promote discussions about equality, and inspire students to stand up for what is right in their own lives.

Embracing Global Citizenship
The French American Academy’s commitment to nurturing global citizens was evident in the day’s focus on the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students and parents collaborated to complete a large SDG wheel, placing quotes, logos, and numbers in their correct positions. This activity not only educated participants about global challenges but also emphasized the role each individual can play in creating positive change.

Celebrating Cultural Diversity
The day culminated in a joyous celebration of the school’s cultural diversity. Parents brought and shared traditional dishes from their home countries, transforming the cafeteria into a vibrant international food festival. This culinary exchange provided a delicious way for the community to appreciate and learn about different cultures.

Lessons That Last
Community Day at the French American Academy went beyond a one-day event; it reinforced the school’s core values of openness, respect, and inclusivity. By engaging in these meaningful activities, students learned valuable lessons about:
- The importance of embracing diversity and challenging inequalities
- The power of community action in creating positive change
- The relevance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s message in today’s world
- The significance of global citizenship and sustainable development
- Learn more about our Social-Emotional Learning initiatives.
- Discover how FAA fosters Global Citizenship.


