Mr. Dingeldine’s 5th Graders Visit the Swiss Embassy
by Reem Nourallah Chiaviello
On June 2, 2010, Mr. Dingledine’s fifth graders visited the Swiss Embassy to demonstrate what they’ve learned about Switzerland during their year of study.
The students gave a two-hour presentation and a musical performance, demonstrating to the Swiss ambassador, delegates, and staff what they have learned about Switzerland and entertaining them. The presentations and the performance were arranged by Mr. Dingledine.
The event was attended by the Honorable Mr. Urs Ziswiler, the Swiss ambassador to the United States; his wife, Mrs. Ronit Ziswiler; Mr. Norbert Baerlocher, head of communications and cultural affairs; Michelle Colburn, manager of cultural projects; embassy staff, representatives of DCPS; and the Washington Performing Arts Society, whose hard work and dedication made the cultural program possible.
The Swiss Embassy Adoption Program is supported by the Swiss Embassy. It’s one of many social and educational programs that introduce and familiarize Americans with Switzerland, its history, culture, and languages.
The event ended with students thanking the Swiss Embassy for supporting this wonderful program. The Swiss ambassador was presented with a beautiful painting and the Ambassador’s wife and key staff were given bouquets of flowers.
The event was educational and fun. The atmosphere was pleasant. The ambassador and staff were quite impressed by Stoddert’s fifth-graders, their presentations, and performance.
The event was very successful and a job well done by all.
Reader Comments
Dear Reem, Mr. Dingledine, and 5th Graders,
It was an absolute pleasure working with you this year and teaching about Switzerland. I think my favorite classes were the winter holidays, Fastnacht mask-making, the hike and cookout, and the acting of Heidi.
I know I had a great time coming into the classroom as did my colleagues and helpers.
My saddest part about leaving the embassy, is leaving the EAP experience behind. Your participation and questions, humor, and smarts were an inspiration to me and I am sure to others who visited.
You rocked the final presentation!
Thank you and best wishes for a wonderful next year in middle school, and happy graduation to you all. I know how hard you worked all year.
Best Always,
Mrs. C (Michele Colburn)