The English Language Learner (ELL) program hosted a culture gallery in the high school cafeteria on Wednesday, October 22. Traditional meals prepared by families filled the cafeteria with warm aromas. Students created colorful posters to line the table tops with information on their countries. The event welcomed students, staff, friends, families, and community members.
“Being a part of the ELL program is special to me,” says Elizabeth Morales Cancel, the District ELL Liaison, “When I see people who are new to the community and school, I can offer them security and confidence. When they know someone who speaks their language, you can feel the change, from insecurity to security. Being able to serve our people is very special.”
The culture gallery also served as an opportunity to say thank you. Superintendent Pat Hamilton, Assistant Superintendent Bridget Exman Dunn, Associate Principal Christopher Krueger, and Mayor Bill Schickel were all presented with certificates of gratitude from the ELL staff for the work and support they put into the ELL program.
Connecting with Dance
A highlight of the gallery was the traditional dances performed by groups of Micronesian students. A group of middle school students danced to Amere by Efezino. They were followed by a group of high school students, led by staff member Vicky Paul, who danced to I ain’t Goin’ Down by Shania Twain.
“It was special to me,” says Paul. “Because not all of the kids knew the dance, and I got to have them learn it. It was not easy getting them to dance, especially the boys. That’s what made it special. It also reminded me of our island and how much I miss it!”
Elizabeth Noemi Morales Cancel • Oct 31, 2025 at 2:40 pm
Good afternoon: It is a great honor for me to work as a Community Liaison for our Mason City School District and to be able to connect and work with our ELL students and their families and to be able to show and share with you some of our cultures.