The Lower School Middle Eastern Heritage Lunch Bunch was a delightful gathering for our Lower School friends. They nibbled on dates, shared words in their languages, discussed their backgrounds, listened to Middle Eastern music, and connected on similarities that they share with each other. One humorous moment was when they shared how, when a family member tells you "Inshallah" (the literal Arabic translation is "God-willing"), which is used interchangeably with hopefully or maybe, the kids all agreed it really means 'no.' Thank you to Ms. Pardesi, our diversity, equity, and inclusion coordinator, who designed a meaningful lunch for our young friends. Check out the photos from their lunch. 

Our Chinese 2 students, currently studying the shopping unit, took their learning beyond the classroom with a field trip to 99 Ranch in Fairfax City. Through a scavenger hunt, they practiced essential Chinese phrases like asking for prices and recognizing discounts while exploring the unique differences between Asian and American grocery stores—especially in the seafood, produce, and snack sections.

To further enhance their language skills, students ordered food in Chinese at the food court and enjoyed a well-earned treat—milk tea for dessert! This hands-on experience allowed them to engage with real-world language and cultural diversity, making their learning truly come to life. 

On Tuesday, the Hispanic Student Alliance brought Langstaff Auditorium to life with their annual assembly. Presentations focused on the food, language, pop culture, and traditions across Latin America. The assembly culminated in a live telenovela, staged by members of the Hispanic Student Alliance and some enthusiastic audience volunteers. After the assembly, to celebrate their accomplishment, members of the affinity group enjoyed a catered lunch from a local Latin American restaurant. We are thankful for the HSA's efforts to share a rich culture with our community! 

This past Friday, Chinese 1B students went on a field trip to the Great Wall Chinese Supermarket, where they participated in a scavenger hunt, interviewed customers, and enjoyed traditional Chinese food. The trip concluded with a visit to Yifang Tea House, where students enjoyed bubble tea. This hands-on experience gave the students a fun and immersive way to connect with Chinese culture and language. 

We were thankful snow did not throw another wrench into bringing our second annual Middle School Black History Month Assembly to the stage. Under the guidance of Alisha McClain, fifth grade teacher, and Middle School DEI coordinator, students performed a skit, danced, and sang, and shared a video that showed short interviews about what Potomac Middle Schoolers want to be when they grow into adults! All of the program centered around this year's theme for Black History Month "African Americans and Labor." We are also thankful to hear Potomac parent Gharun Hester share reflections from his career. It was no surprise that our student presenters and performers rose to the occasion for this valuable assembly! Enjoy the photo gallery.

On Wednesday, the Upper School gathered for our annual Black History Month Assembly. Led by our Black Student Union, the assembly introduced the community to the diverse food, music styles, and fashion of the African diaspora. Highlights of the assembly included a musical performance by Monica Mbakop '26, Alex Davis '25, and Lauren Hilliard '25, and a rousing speech delivered by US history teacher Kayla Williamson. After the assembly, Black Student Union members gathered for a special lunch coordinated by our Parents of Black Students group. We are so thankful to the students, faculty, and parents who worked together to make this special day happen. Check out the gallery.