(OCTOBER 2022)—Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen recently spent time learning about Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. Diwali is one of the most important holidays of the year in India dating back to 527 B.C. The five-day-long festival got its name from the row of diyas, or clay lamps, that people would light up.
“Learning about various holidays is important because it promotes understanding and cultural awareness,” said Dr. Judith LaRocca, Superintendent of Schools. “By teaching our students about other cultures, they become more empathetic, open-minded, and better prepared to thrive in the diverse workplace of the future.”
Students read books about Diwali such as Amma, Tell Me About Diwali! by Bhakti Mathur, and created their own rangolis and diyas. Students learned about Diwali and the meaning of the holiday with interactive smart board presentations.
