By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
In any language, Christmas is meant to be celebrated.
Union City Middle School ELL teacher Selena Barker has done her part this week by introducing her students to many traditional yuletide activities.
From learning the art of gift wrapping, to decorating sugar cookies, to painting their own ornaments, English Language Learner pupils were able to practice their learning and speaking skills while using English Christmas vocabulary learned in Barker’s classes.
On Monday, Laura Oliver, a retired UC Schools educator, gave students guidance on how to professionally wrap a gift – including making bows.
Tuesday was spent decorating cookies with icing and sprinkles, with the students joking that “most Americans use too much sugar.”
And on Wednesday, local business owner Abi Hellmich (The Art Room) lent her talents, guiding students in painting Christmas ornaments. Students displayed their artistic abilities during the process and were able to interact and communicate outside of their school setting.
Mrs. Hellmich complimented her visitors, who painted one ornament for themselves and another to give away, saying, “I loved having them. They were so much fun. It really amazes me how talented kids are.”
Barker said the experiences were truly priceless for her students.
“I am so grateful to (UCMS Principal) Coach (Cole) McAdams for allowing our students the opportunity to learn about our Christmas traditions in a fun and interactive way,” she said. “I feel that it enriches their level of understanding of their English vocabulary when they can participate in activities.
“I’d also like to extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to Mrs. Abi at The Art Room for welcoming us into her studio, and to Mrs. Oliver for taking time out of her day to share her wrapping skills with us. I hope my students made some happy memories this week. I know I did!”