Students At North Star Academy Take Part In Ukrainian Day

DULUTH, Minn. — An event took place Thursday at North Star Academy in Duluth teaching students about the Ukrainian culture.

Ukrainian Day was inspired after several students became interested about the Ukrainian War. So, kindergarten, first and second grade students all got the chance to learn something new. Stations were set up to listen to Ukrainian songs, make Easter eggs, try some candy and baked goods, and just learn about the life of a Ukrainian person. A teacher says it has been amazing seeing the Ukrainian students connect with others.

“Even though they didn’t speak the same language they have a lot of the same you know body language, and they have facial expressions, and they were able to add in movements and things like that, so they were able to communicate on a different level than just using you know English,” said Erica Hanson, First Grade Teacher and Board Member.

Parents of some Ukrainian students say they came to America to better their children’s lives and keep them safe. They also wanted American students to understand that there is more to Ukraine than the war.

“I’m happy to have a chance to protect my kid not to see the war and be there in this more safe place. But a lot of people live there and the worst part they got used to it,” said Tania Ovcharova, parent of a Ukrainian student.

“Knowing that this country, the United States has shown us so much support and people are so kind and accepting and supportive. This makes me believe that hopefully this world will be a better place for our children,” said Mila Mostova, parent of a Ukrainian student.

The biggest takeaway teachers hoped the students learned from the event is that there is always more to learn and experience.