GFJ was filled with excitement and the delicious aroma of pizza as some of the Italian Club Officers (Nola Burke, Grace Judge, Maria De Nardis, Gianna Balanda, and Ainsley Edwards) with one of their advisors, Mrs. Celia Randesi-Temple, visited Ms. Courtney Hine’s first class and Mrs. Mary Judge’s fourth grade class to celebrate National Pizza Day. The special event combined food, culture, and hands-on learning, giving students a memorable way to explore Italian traditions.
The celebration included a brief introduction to National Pizza Day and why pizza holds such an important place in Italian culture. Italian Club Officers members shared fun facts about the history of pizza, explaining how it originated in Naples, Italy, and was once considered a simple meal for working families. Students learned that the classic Margherita pizza—made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil—represents the colors of the Italian flag: red, white, and green. They were given the chance to try this type of pizza made by Italian Club Officers.
Students had the opportunity to make their own personal pizzas. With guidance from the Italian Club Officers, first and fourth graders spread sauce, sprinkled cheese, and added their favorite toppings. The hands-on activity not only sparked creativity but also helped students connect with the cultural lesson in a fun and meaningful way
In addition to cooking, students were introduced to a few basic Italian words and phrases. They practiced saying “ciao” (hello) and “grazie” (thank you) along with other Italian vocabulary terms. 
The students were eager to learn more about the Italian language and culture, asking thoughtful questions and sharing their excitement throughout the event.
Laughter and smiles filled the room as the students enjoyed tasting their creations. The celebration provided a wonderful opportunity for cross-grade connection and cultural exploration. By the end of the day, students not only had full stomachs but also a greater appreciation for Italy’s 
rich history and traditions.
The Italian Club’s visit made National Pizza Day at GFJ both educational and delicious—a perfect recipe for learning and fun.