The hallways of Bedford Middle School were filled with international greetings and cultural celebrations as students participated in the annual World Language Week festivities, held April 7-11. From creating traditional crafts, playing favorite games, trying out traditional African instruments and sampling diverse cuisines, middle schoolers expanded their global perspectives while having fun.

"World Language Week reminds us that learning a new language opens doors to understanding different cultures and perspectives," said Maria Zachery, Westport Public Schools World Languages Coordinator. "These immersive experiences help students see beyond their immediate community and develop appreciation for our diverse world."

A Few Highlights

Mandarin students enjoyed a cultural immersion beyond the classroom walls with a field trip to the Yale University Art Gallery, where they explored art collections. Students continued their immersion with a language-based lunch at Lao Sze Chuan Restaurant and then navigated GMart, an Asian market in Milford.

Back at school, Mandarin students created traditional Chinese Straw Art plum blossoms and designed Peking Opera masks after learning about the cultural significance of colors and patterns. The students also participated in a community service project, decorating grocery bags with messages in Mandarin for Heart of Dinner, an organization that delivers food to elderly and food-insecure residents in Manhattan's Chinatown.

Spanish language students delved into the vibrant cultures of Spain and Mexico. Seventh graders experienced the Spanish tradition of tapas, crafted colorful paper flowers and fans (abánicos), and moved to the rhythms of Latin pop music. Eighth graders created Mexican spirit animals (alebrijes) and paper piñatas while sampling traditional Mexican cuisine. Some students in grades six and seven shared cultural artifacts representing their personal heritage, bringing a meaningful connection between their own backgrounds and the languages they study.

The experiences shared by students, staff, and faculty demonstrate how language learning fosters cultural understanding and global citizenship—valuable skills that extend far beyond the classroom.