McNulty Academy's International Night attracts more than 300 people

It’s not every day that the best pasta fagoli, Shepherd's meat pie, pirogues, kielbasa and other delectable dishes are found at the same place, which explains why the third annual Magnet School Celebration at McNulty Academy for International Studies and Literacy was packed with more than 300 people.

The event is designed to illustrate how the school’s international theme is incorporated into the curriculum, and the highlight of the evening is the food sampling gala in the cafeteria.

This year, dozens of McNulty parents and Amsterdam businesses brought their favorite ethnic dishes for everyone to try, said Donna Decker, a McNulty math teacher who helped organize the event with Mary Ann Tomlinson, also a McNulty math teacher.

“The food is always amazing, and we can’t thank the parents and business owners enough for their contributions. But what’s really important is that it helps bring the community together and gives parents a chance to see what their children are learning,” she said.

As good as the food was, the night wasn't just about eating. Parents were given McNulty Passports and allowed to visit the classrooms, each of which highlighted a different culture from around the world. On display outside each classroom were student projects and artwork based on the culture chosen by that classroom. For example, one classroom decorated masks like those once made by indigenous people of Brazil. Another classroom displayed their skill at iris folding, a Dutch activity in which color-coordinated strips of folded paper are taped into place over a pattern, creating a spiraling design that resembles the iris of an eye or camera.

Tomlinson said the event is exciting and motivating for both students and teachers, who put a great deal of effort into the projects.

“We always receive a wonderful response from the parents. They know how hard the teachers and students have worked to make the night special,” she said.

After the tours, musical performances were staged by the McNulty Academy Ambassadors and third-grade students, both of which were led by the school’s music teacher, Matthew Cinquanti. Next was a Spanish musical performance by fifth-graders, and that was led by Spanish teacher Malina Hebert.

To view a photo gallery of International Night, click here.