First-graders from Camp Foster’s Zukeran Elementary School hosted a cultural exchange with 80 students and staff from Busy Bee, a local off-base school. The objective was to encourage intercultural learning and relationships among the students.

The guests were greeted by Zukeran’s very own taiko drummers! Then, all the students explored the history of the Christmas tree. Afterwards, they collaborated in partner groups to design and build edible Christmas trees using sugar cones, green frosting, and various holiday candies. At lunchtime, the students shared traditional lunches from their respective cultures, attended a special magic performance and became reading buddies! The entire event was filled with smiles, laughter, and hugs between members of the participating schools.

Zukeran teachers involved in the project included Madison Baker, Amy Elliott, Jonna Velazquez and Kayla McElwee.

At the end of the event, the feedback from Busy Bee’s staff and students was overwhelmingly positive and full of gratitude towards Zukeran for hosting their school for the day. Kudos to Zukeran’s kiddos for building intercultural relationships! And congratulations to Zukeran’s staff, as well as their integral parent community, for their coordination and collaboration that ensured a successful event!