Independence Day

My students practiced. They cut and built and created and molded. Grammar and spelling got pushed aside for poster boards and run-throughs. 

My students danced. Over weeks, I watched as chaos turned into something that resembled a dance into a performance. 

Independence Day came around and my students were ready. Fourth grade took first place on their presentation about Managua and the whole school (teachers included) danced for the parents in Nica fashion. 

My 4th graders looking snazzy in their traditional outfits

Flowers are a key part of the outfit. The bigger, the better. 

Independence Day in Nicaragua, like in any country, is a big deal. At NCA, every single student, teacher, and worker at the school gets involved. Parents bring supplies. Students work on presentations. Gardeners and construction workers help us transform spaces. Teachers make time for students to create their presentations and decorate. The Spanish department runs the show. 

Nicaragua gained its independence from Spain in 1821. People all over the country celebrate with parades, dances, and food. 

My students danced with the 3rd graders to "Juegos Infantiles". Here is a link to part of their dance: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8VDoM4dapMc&feature=youtu.be

The teachers donned their white dresses and fans for their dance to "Maria Estela": 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Uvx2fDHDfo&feature=youtu.be

What a blessing it is to have two places to celebrate with and two places to call home.