A vibrant presentation of Ecuadorian culture, dance, and global connection landed in the School District of Palm Beach County.
From May 13-15, five District campuses welcomed a special visit of students and teachers from Ludoteca International School, in Ecuador, marking nearly two decades of an enduring cross-cultural partnership between Ludoteca and the School District.
The visiting delegation delivered captivating cultural presentations at Berkshire Elementary School, in West Palm Beach and New Horizons Elementary School in Wellington, as well as Jeaga Middle School in West Palm Beach, Okeeheelee Middle School in Greenacres, and Watson B. Duncan Middle School in Palm Beach Gardens.
District students didn’t just watch the performances, they became part of them. Audiences enthusiastically participated in Ecuadorian culture and traditions, jumping at the opportunity to join the visiting students in traditional dances. To commemorate the experience, local students also received special handcrafted souvenirs from their Ecuadorian peers.
The impact on the school communities was positive and enriching. Faculty and staff noted the inspiring, lively energy brought by the delegation, and interactive dance sessions brought classrooms together in shared laughter and movement. Administration officials considered the visit a high point for global education.
“Ludoteca’s visit was an amazing experience of the culture of Ecuador,†said Phillip D'Amico, the Principal at Watson B. Duncan Middle. “Faculty, students, and staff were immersed in the culture by dancing with the students. The students were so vibrant, inspiring, and full of life. A good time was had by all.”
Ludoteca International School has been a distinguished IB World School since 2008. The institution is widely recognized for its commitment to inquiry, critical thinking, bilingualism, and global citizenship through internationally respected academic excellence.
“What makes Ludoteca remarkable is its ability to blend international standards with Ecuadorian cultural identity,” said Dr. Patricia Ordonez-Feliciano, executive director of the Multicultural Education Department. For 18 years, this partnership has enriched our District by fostering relationships grounded in cultural exchange and global understanding. Their visits have provided our students and educators opportunities to experience their traditions, rich heritage, and perspectives.â€
The success of the multi-school tour was due in large part to the dedication of the visiting group. The Multicultural Education Department extended a special thank you to Fernando Alban, the Principal of Ludoteca, alongside chaperones Consuelo Barsallo, Carlos Pallo, and Jorge Ortiz. Most notably, praise was given to the 17 Ludoteca students whose hard work and showmanship made the cultural event possible.
“The visit from Ludoteca International School is an extraordinary addition to our District and a highlight of our academic year,” said Christian Garate, associate director of the Multicultural Education Department. “We are incredibly proud of our 18-year partnership with Ludoteca School. We are grateful that so many of our students were able to be exposed to such a vibrant and wonderful performance as part of this enduring tradition.â€
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