Wheatley Raabe
Reporter
On May 24 the World Language Department held their seventh annual International Night in the cafeteria from 5-7. Students, teachers and parents enjoyed numerous ethnic foods, listened to student performances and watched an award ceremony to honor those who excelled throughout the year.
A wide variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts were brought in by students. Different cultures were represented by these dishes, including multiple Italian pastas and a Mexican piñata cake for dessert.
After dinner, many students performed for their peers. This entertainment included Irish step-dancing, a poem recited by Jennifer Vos’ French class, and junior Gabby Balzano singing an acoustic version of a Spanish pop song.
World Language Chair and event coordinator Lisa Arbues said that this year’s turnout has been the best she’s seen so far. “I thought the event was great,” Dr. Arbues said. “The students and their parents got their food and seated themselves fairly early, which is something that has taken longer in the past.”
Spanish teacher Mary Louise Chillington also noticed an increase in the number of parents at International Night compared to previous years. “This was an excellent turnout,” she said. “I think these are the most parents that I’ve ever seen attend, which is great to get the whole family involved.”
Sophomore Brendan Hill, who won a certificate for his achievements in Spanish, was a first-time attendee and had a positive first impression of the event. “When I walked into the lounge, I could tell it was going to be a fun night by looking at all the food and decorations,” he said.
For freshman Sarah Hardy, a member of the Irish step dancing group, it was also her first time at the event. “I really didn’t know what to expect, but I’ve had a lot of fun trying the different dishes,” she said. “I thought the Shepherd’s Pie was really good, and I definitely want to come back again next year.”
According to, Dr. Arbues, the night couldn’t have gone better. “Overall, I think the night went really well,” she said. “Everything ran smoothly from beginning to end. The event was great.”
