Grades 2 and 3 trek through Little Italy

In October, about 90 SBCS second and third graders hopped on the Charm City Circulator and trekked through Little Italy to kick off their expedition about how and why cultures form.

They were welcomed to the bocce courts by the friendly faces of Gia and Susannah – influential inhabitants of Little Italy. Students experienced many elements of Italian culture. Each student, along with the helpful hands of many chaperones, got to eat authentic pasta from Café Gia, play bocce ball with instructor Phill Gargiulo, and listen to the soothing tunes of a hurdy gurdy operated by Little Italy’s Mr. Gene. As students walked through the quaint neighborhood, they witnessed various displays of Italian pride and captured pictures of St. Leo’s Church, Italian flags, and all of the people that helped us experience the aspects of Italian culture.

Upon returning from the kick-off, they frequently refer to the pictures and the background knowledge gained from the excursion. It has helped the students get invested in the expedition and it opened their minds to new ways of life and the traditions of others.