School Presentations Exchanges
KKSCA Cultural Presentations 2002
In April 2002, a letter was distributed to all the elementary schools in the Central Okanagan School District, outlining 4 programs offered by the Kelowna-Kasugai Sister City Association Task area.
These 4 programs include one hour classroom visits, Festival Japan, an art contest and a one-day cultural seminar. All four programs were very successful
Classroom Visits
We visited 16 schools covering 29 classes. That is approximately 780 grade six students. We gave a one-hour presentation about Japan showing real Japanese items such as clothing, toys and photos.
Most of the classes opted for the $20 food sample. Kids and teachers were delighted to try senbei, nori, edamame, manju, and a Japanese candy, HiChew. We gave them a mini lesson in Japanese language. Students were surprised that after a very short introduction of hiragana, they were able to read some Japanese words. The program was a great success. We look forward to offering it again.
Festival Japan
During the classroom visits, we advertised the festival and offered passports to grade six students at a reduced rate. I was pleased to see many grade sixes out on festival day.
Art Contest
Komatsu Japanese Market graciously sponsored an art contest for grade six students with the theme “Japan Through My Eyes”. With close to 100 entries the decision was difficult for the judges.
First prize was awarded to Jesse Shellenburg from Chief Tomat Elementary, second to Jeremy Dur of South Kelowna Elementary, and third to Danielle Ferguson of Belgo Elementary. There were 10 honourable mention prizes awarded to students from South Kelowna, Watson Road, Belgo and Chief Tomat.
Cultural Seminar
A one-day seminar was held shortly after the festival. Our guests from Japan showed 30 students (two representatives selected from each school in the district) the arts of Calligraphy, Taiko drumming, Koto and Shakuhachi flute making.
We look forward to another successful year getting schools informed and involved with our sister city. We feel there is a tremendous value in sharing this cross cultural experience with students in our community.
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