Maxey families explore various world cultures with Heritage Night

Maxey Elementary School redefined the word jet-setter as its students and families traveled around the world in one night.

The school hosted a heritage event allowing the Mustang community to explore various cultures, food and traditions in early November. Maxey third-grade student Nina and mother Laura Bartels, who also teaches English Language (EL) for the building, introduced attendees to Paraguay by sharing facts about the country, native foods and tea. 

“I think it’s awesome that they are open to learning new things, and I love it that we can share our heritage because I think it’s very important for all of us to know that type of stuff and all of us to carry on our heritage,” Nina said.

“It’s a great opportunity to think about how we are around each other all the time and we don’t take time to sometimes share those details of our lives,” Bartels said.

Maxey’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and EL teachers worked hard over three months to try to create the premier traveling experience for guests. The school’s staff and its mascot greeted attendees by handing out passports while dressed as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) members. The world travelers received passport stamps each time they toured a new country – booths hosted by Maxey families.

“It was really fun to let them know about the country. It’s a proud moment,” PTO member and India booth host Rachana Jhala said. “Many of them want to visit India, so we were able to guide them. Most of them love our food. We are happy we were able to provide some food to them.” Jhala also helped chair the committee that planned the night.

Approximately 40 families hosted booths representing more than 20 countries, including Brazil, Laos, Ukraine, Iran, Canada and the Czech Republic. The event even featured songs from a local mariachi band and dance performances from the Lincoln Asian Community and Culture Center.  

The last time Maxey held an event similar to its most recent Heritage Night was seven years ago. Event organizers mentioned Maxey’s diversity has grown since then, making now the perfect time to bring the cultural celebration back. They were astonished by its large turnout with about 400 people in attendance. 

“All families put tremendous effort to show their culture,” PTO committee co-chair Sibele Schafer  said. “I was so thrilled. It warmed my heart seeing the interaction in each booth and the overall energy in the event.” 

“It felt amazing seeing everyone's pride, joy, and excitement while celebrating and sharing their heritage with others,” Maxey EL Team leader Stephanie Gilb said.

More than 680 students attend Maxey. Organizers believe events like these are essential to foster greater connections and community.

“Community building is important to school culture because it encourages positive feelings about school for both students and parents,” Maxey Principal Suzanne Reimers said. “Families will feel more connected and supportive when the school culture is warm, welcoming and inclusive to all. In return, students will have a better chance of being highly successful at school.”

The Mustangs hope to host another Heritage Night next year. 

 

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