In March, AIS Library invited students to participate in a month-long celebration of influential immigrants and refugees that have contributed to the progress and shaped the culture of the United States of America. This month's activities consisted of contests and spirit days all with the goal of developing a love of reading while also developing an understanding of the modern day issues the world faces right now in context of refugees and immigration.
The button below links to a virtual library including a collection of picture books that tell the story of immigrant and refugee families and their dreams and challenges they faced when moving to a new world. The titles from this virtual library are available on epic! as well.
Each Monday, AIS Library presented a guest reading a book about the immigrant or refugee experience.
Ms. Evelyn Trejo, our Primary Dean, kicked off Read Across AISE 2022 with “Tomás and the Library Lady”. This book reminded her of her own family's origin story.
Mrs. Lavesa Devnani, Early Childhood Assistant Principal, was our next special guest of Read Across AISE 2022! She presented her family story and the read-aloud “The Day You Begin”.
“There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you until the day you begin to share your stories.” The quote from the read-aloud presented by Ms. Devnani points out the struggles and authentic feelings of an immigrant child. It gives us hope by stating that only by sharing our own stories we become closer, more similar than different, and more courageous.
Dr. Kapono Ciotti, our school director, was the final Monday star of the Read Across AISE initiative. He shared his family story and read "Grandfather's Journey".
The book highlights the topics of immigration, belonging, and family. A young man from Japan crosses the Pacific Ocean and explores the United States. “The funny thing is, the moment I am in one country, I am homesick for the other.” Main character shares his thoughts and feelings about coming home, finding home, and being torn between two places. The book explores family roots and asks significant questions about one’s cultural identity.
Create a new book cover of your chosen book from the virtual library to celebrate the immigrant and refugee experience!
Write a reflective essay after reading your chosen book(s) about the immigrant and refugee experience.
Winner - Angie Saifeldin, Grade 6
Please find the reflection in the Student Book Reviews Section!
Winner - Gemma Saifeldin, Grade 6
Please find the reflection in the Student Book Reviews Section!
Teachers' Book Selfies related to the topics of immigrants, refugees, and diversity: