By: Susan Moberg and Lia Bradley
School Librarian and ELL Specialist at Dickinson High School
The annual celebration of international students took place today at DHS, organized by Mrs. Bradley and her English Language Learner (ELL) students, with Mrs. Moberg and Mrs. Schmitz hosting the event in the DHS library. This vibrant gathering highlights the diverse backgrounds of our student body and fosters a sense of community and inclusion.
Among our attendees were foreign exchange students as well as those who have recently relocated to North Dakota with their families. They represent a rich tapestry of cultures from around the globe, including Mexico, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Ukraine, Congo, Haiti, and Cuba, among others. The event was animated by student emcees Denzel Perez and Itzayana Gonzalez, who welcomed guests and ensured the festivities flowed smoothly.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address by Marlene Stegmiller, a DHS alumna from the Class of 2015. She shared her personal journey, discussing the struggles, challenges, and opportunities she faced as an international student. Mr. Brandt also spoke to the crowd, emphasizing the valuable contributions international students make to our school community.
Mrs. Bradley's students contributed significantly by creating informative displays about their home countries, allowing attendees to learn more about the diverse cultures represented at DHS. The event also featured a delicious lunch, showcasing various dishes from around the world, generously provided by DHS students, parents, faculty, and staff.
In tandem with celebrating our international students, we recognized our outstanding scholars who earned the North Dakota Seal of Biliteracy. This prestigious award honors graduating students for demonstrating proficiency in a language other than English. This year's award winners are Karen Arreola, Dilcia Contreras, Daniel Rocha, Angel Silva, and Stephanie Tally, each of whom has showcased exceptional linguistic abilities. The celebration was a joyful reminder of the rich diversity within our school and the strength it brings to our community.