Harmony Week is a time of celebration where students and staff come together to embrace cultural diversity and promote inclusion. This special week was filled with various activities designed to foster understanding and unity within the school community.
A Full Week of Activities
The week kicked off with an Advisory/Student Leaders session, where participants engaged in chalk drawing on the hardcourt under the theme “Everyone belongs.” This activity encouraged students to reflect on how they can embrace diversity and inclusivity more effectively at ISS.
Throughout the week, students participated in various activities:
Students engaged in sports, with a highlight being the Paani games.
Students created posters and a flag collage, showcasing the many cultures currently represented at ISS – over 57 nationalities!
Students enjoyed a vibrant array of performances, including Karaoke & Lip Sync, Indian Dance, Meke, and Polynesian Dance, emphasizing the artistic expressions of different cultures.
The whole school came together for Cultural Dress Day, where students wore traditional attire, celebrated national foods, and participated in a parade showcasing cultural diversity.
The week concluded with a return to the normal school schedule, but the memories and lessons learned during Harmony Week have left a lasting impact.
Year 11 and 12 Reflection
Harmony Week at ISS was a powerful demonstration of the unity and inclusivity that define our community. Year 11 and 12 student leaders, working closely with the Year Coordinators (YCs), ensured that the celebration extended beyond just an event, creating a school-wide atmosphere of respect, understanding, and pride in our diverse backgrounds. The collaboration between students and staff made Harmony Week more than just a series of activities; it became a shared experience that encouraged everyone to participate and reflect on the importance of inclusivity. Through various cultural displays, performances, and discussions, we not only celebrated our differences but also recognized the strength that comes from our collective diversity. This week has shown us that when we work together, we can foster an environment where every student feels valued and respected, paving the way for ongoing conversations about diversity and inclusion throughout the school year.
Fostering Open-Mindedness and Social Skills
Harmony Week not only provided a platform for cultural expression but also aligned with the IB Learner Profile attribute of Open-Mindedness. Students at ISS are encouraged to appreciate their own cultures and personal histories while being open to the perspectives, values, and traditions of others. This attitude is crucial for developing empathy and understanding in a multicultural environment.
In addition, the activities during Harmony Week helped students hone key MYP Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills. For instance:
Communication Skills: Through activities like posters, flag collages, and the Cultural Dress parade, students practiced conveying their ideas and cultural knowledge clearly and creatively. These activities provided opportunities for both verbal and visual communication, essential skills in our increasingly interconnected world.
Collaboration Skills: Organizing and participating in group activities, such as dance performances and sports events, required students to work effectively in diverse teams. They learned to value each member’s contributions, respect different opinions, and work towards a common goal.
A Lasting Impact
Harmony Week at ISS is more than just a series of events; it’s a celebration of the school’s rich cultural tapestry. By engaging in these activities, students not only have fun but also learn valuable life lessons about respect, empathy, and cooperation. These experiences are instrumental in shaping global citizens who are aware of and sensitive to the diverse world around them.
As the school continues to grow and welcome new students from various backgrounds, Harmony Week serves as a vital reminder of the importance of fostering an inclusive and respectful community. It’s a celebration of what makes us different and what brings us together, echoing the sentiment that at ISS, indeed, “Everyone belongs.”
The Harmony Week Team
