As Eid al-Fitr approaches, marking the joyful end of Ramadan, McNaughton students and teachers reflect on a meaningful two-day Ramadan learning event that brought cultural awareness and connection to the school community. The initiative was the result of a collaboration between McNaughton Ave PS staffer Kathleen Brenders, Settlement Worker Wedad Ateya and ELL Support Teacher Megan Gare.
With the help of 12 generous community volunteers and 7 dedicated student volunteers, the school was transformed into a vibrant learning space where 39 classes explored Ramadan through presentations, cultural artifacts, and interactive stations.
“It was a very welcoming and positive environment,” shared the volunteers. “We received a lot of questions from students and teachers. It was so good to be a part of this and share our culture.”
A Cultural Learning Experience
The event featured five themed tables showcasing different aspects of Ramadan and Islamic culture, including:
Traditional clothing, shoes, and jewelry
Spices from various countries
Arabic letters, currencies, and postcards
Children’s books, and interactive toys
Ornate coffee sets, lanterns, and Arabic-script art
Students had the unique opportunity to have their names written in Arabic, forging personal connections across languages and cultures. Teachers were also treated to traditional Arabic coffee, a gesture that symbolized the spirit of hospitality and sharing.
Each volunteer provided short presentations covering key aspects of Ramadan, such as the lunar calendar and moon phases, and the importance of empathy and charity.
Bringing Communities Together
“The Month of Ramadan is about sharing, and that is what brought us here—to share knowledge about our traditions,” said Wedad Ateya. “Bringing communities together helps everyone feel welcome, included, and builds a stronger, safer community for all.”
Teachers also appreciated how the event linked directly to curriculum topics, such as science, history, world cultures, and belonging.
“This was a wonderful event,” said Megan Gare. “It was visually beautiful, informative, and positive for everyone who attended. It was great to see so many community volunteers and students responsibly sharing their culture.”
By fostering understanding and connection, this Ramadan event left a lasting impact on both students and staff, enriching their perspectives and appreciation for diverse traditions.