Celebrating Central America at D.C. International PCS

Maximo Alfaro approached teaching about Central America by integrating various cultural, historical, and geographical elements into a cohesive unit in his middle school classroom at District of Columbia International Public Charter School. The unit began with a map activity where students identified the countries in Central America, discussing their locations and key characteristics. To make this more engaging, Alfaro incorporated a lesson that focused on the diverse ecosystems of the region. Students participated in a group project where they researched different biomes found in Central America, such as rainforests and coastal areas. Each group presented their findings, highlighting the unique flora and fauna of their assigned biome, as well as the cultural significance of these environments to local communities. This not only fostered collaboration but also deepened their understanding of the interconnection between environment and culture.

Alfaro also organized a Central American Cultural Day, inviting other classrooms to participate in a celebration of the region’s rich heritage. There were a variety of activities such as traditional dance performances, art displays featuring works inspired by Central American artists, and cooking stations where students could try dishes like pupusas and tamales. A key component of the day was a guest speaker from a local Central American community organization who shared personal stories and insights about the region’s contemporary issues. This immersive experience encouraged students to appreciate the diversity and complexity of Central America beyond just its geography, fostering a greater sense of empathy and global awareness. The event concluded with a reflection session where students shared what they learned, reinforcing the lessons from our earlier unit while celebrating the vibrant cultures of Central America.