More than 250 students, families and staff packed into the Field House last week for World Cultures Night, an event set up and led by Dr. Michelle Sencibaugh and Ms. Jinnie Fitzgerald, VPSD’s English Language Development teachers. The energy at the event was impossible to miss. From the colorful displays to the conversations sparked between families who’d never met before, it was the kind of night that reminded everyone why our “One Community” spirit matters so much.
Dr. Sencibaugh shared the inspiration behind the event, explaining, “As an English Language Development teacher for culturally and linguistically diverse families, I’ve witnessed firsthand how people carry their stories, traditions, and journeys wherever they go. Volunteering at the World Bird Sanctuary right here in Valley Park showed me how birds migrate, adapt and connect communities. That inspired the World Bird Sanctuary and World Cultures Night, an event that celebrates the journeys of both birds and people and brings our district’s One Community vision to life.”
This night was all about honoring the rich languages, cultures and traditions that make our school community so special. Just like birds that migrate, adapt and soar together under one sky, our multilingual families bring incredible stories, strength and beauty to our school.
The evening didn’t just highlight our cultural diversity. It also showcased the incredible strength of our community. Secondary librarian Lesley Louder summed up the spirit of the night perfectly. She shared, “I love being an educator in Valley Park and have always admired how the community turns out to support our students and events. This night was like no other with so many families, friends, Hawk pride and great vibes.”
Beyond the excitement and the crowd, events like this also do something even more important. They help our students learn and achieve at higher levels.
It might seem surprising that a fun, family focused evening could have an academic impact, but the connection is real. When students see their culture celebrated or have the chance to share something meaningful from home, their confidence grows. That confidence shows up in the classroom in small but powerful ways like speaking up more, engaging with lessons and taking on challenges instead of shying away from them.
Belonging also plays a major role in student success. Kids who feel connected to their school community are more likely to attend regularly, stay engaged and build strong relationships with their teachers and peers. A night that brought more than 250 people together sent a clear message to students. This is a place where they matter and belong.
World Cultures Night also strengthened the connection between school and home. When families gather for something joyful and welcoming, the lines of communication open up. Parents feel more comfortable approaching teachers, asking questions or getting involved. And when schools and families work together, students benefit in every way from behavior to motivation to academic growth.
There was real learning happening too. Students explored traditions, languages, music, art and histories from around the world. They asked questions. They made connections. Curiosity was sparked, and curiosity is one of the best tools a learner can have.
Most importantly, a positive school climate lays the foundation for strong achievement, and events like World Cultures Night help build that climate little by little. A warm, welcoming environment makes it easier for students to focus, feel safe and thrive.
Events like this strengthen our school community in many ways. You don’t always see the impact the next day, but over time they help every student grow. And based on the joy and pride shared by all who joined us, those community roots got a little stronger last week.
Click in to see some photos of the event: