This February marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of Black History Month, a significant milestone that invites our Intermediate School (IS) community to reflect and deepen our collective understanding of Black history. To mark this centennial, students participated in a special assembly led by the Black Student Alliance (BSA). They heard stories and reflections directly from their classmates. The school viewed this 100-year tradition not just as a look back, but as a vital opportunity to continue growing in empathy and awareness. Parents are encouraged to continue these conversations at home, helping students transform these reflections into a lifelong commitment to understanding, honoring, and carrying forward the legacy and impact of Black experiences in our shared history.

The South Asian Student Alliance (SASA) held an assembly on November 4 to showcase the diversity of South Asian culture through song, personal stories, and rituals. The event promoted inclusion and pride by highlighting how South Asian culture and tradition affect individual and societal experiences. The assembly reminded us of the importance of embracing and understanding the various traditions that unite our community. Following the assembly, SASA held a lunchtime conversation.  

Potomac students recently attended the 54th Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference, held under the inspiring theme "Made for This Moment: Power, Policy, and Progress." This conference brought together visionaries, activists, and leaders shaping the future of African Americans and the global Black community. Throughout their time at the CBC, Potomac students immersed themselves in thought-provoking sessions, interactive forums, and invaluable networking opportunities. They engaged in discussions spanning policy, social justice, economic empowerment, healthcare, education, and more – making this event an empowering and enriching experience that can profoundly influence their academic, personal, and civic journeys.

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!