If you’ve walked by Mrs. Emily Edman’s 7th grade Spanish room, you may have been surprised—even frightened by all the skulls hanging on the wall outside the door. However, Ms. Edman was happy to set the record straight. When asked, here is what she reported:
“7th grade students have been crafty and creative as they made flores de Cempasúchitl (flower of the dead / marigolds) and papel picado (perforated paper) for our class Day of the Dead altars.”
“5th Period made an altar in honor of the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The 6th period class altar honors César Chavez.”
“Students incorporated altar items that are significant to an altar display such as: candles, photos of the deceased, pan de muerto (bread of the dead), calaveras (skulls), and favorite food of the deceased.”
“Both classes have been learning about ancient Day of the Dead traditions and the significance of each altar element or item, as well as the vast differences between Day of the Dead and Halloween.”
Thanks for increasing awareness of other cultures and engaging students, Ms. Edman.