TJW second graders spent December exploring holidays, traditions, and cultures from around the world. One highlight was a Zoom visit with three Binghamton University students and former U-E 
teacher Jen Weiss (formerly Carrieri).
The guest speakers introduced the class to Diwali, the Festival of Lights. They explained that Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, and that families often mark the holiday by lighting diyas, decorating their homes, sharing sweets, and spending time together. The students also showed photos of themselves dressed in traditional clothing, trading treats with loved ones, and creating colorful Rangoli designs, decorative patterns made with sand, rice powder, or flower petals.
After the presentation, TJW students tried making their own Rangoli on paper, experimenting with 
bright colors and simple patterns. It was a fun way to learn about a holiday many of them had never heard of before and a chance to appreciate how families around the world celebrate in different and beautiful ways.
