Peabody education spans the globe

By Deirdre Jones

Peabody Elementary is known for its enriched academics and international studies focus. Every grade level studies a different country. By the time each of our students leave, they will have explored Kenya, France, Mexico, Russia, and Japan. The theme is integrated into all subject areas as well as in our extracurricular activities.

For example, Russian teacher Mrs. Inesa Sincane has created an afterschool Russian club for any interested students in grades 3-5. This club is an extension of the instruction that she gives in the classroom. The students have performed plays for our International Festival, our International Carnival, and our Optional Open House. It is amazing to see how well they have learned to listen and speak the language.

Most recently, we hosted an afterschool International Movie Day where students in grades K-5 were invited to participate. Forty-two energetic students gathered in the library to watch the Russian movie Lisa i zayac. As a special treat, they enjoyed popcorn, a Russian cookie, and candy treat.

To add a bit of excitement, after the movie, the students also had an opportunity to win prizes. Students in grades K-2 competed for the best detailed illustration about the movie while students in grades 3-5 competed for the best written movie summary. Congratulations are in order for the following students:

K-2 Movie Illustration Winners

1^st Place – Jacob Haught

2^nd Place – Zoey Farmer

3^rd Place – Elizabeth Anderson

Honorable Mention – Hannah Nelson

3-5 Movie Summary Winners

1^st Place – Marlowe Neeley

2^nd Place – Aamir Dyson

3^rd Place – Kyrah Dawson

The winners received a certificate, Eagle Bucks, and a Matroshka key chain.

In the coming months students will visit local restaurants to sample the cuisine from their country of study, engage in the International Carnival, and paint figurines reflective of their country.

Peabody continues its International studies long after regular school hours.

Deirdre Jones is Peabody Elementary’s International Studies Curriculum Coordinator.