A Culture of Acceptance at Amityville Memorial High School

Amityville Memorial High School celebrated the diversity of Long Island, hosting their first annual Cultural Exchange. Students did not just open the doors of their building, they opened their minds and hearts to the 40 students from the Plainedge Union Free School District who participated in the Exchange. The goal of the day was to immerse students, who may only live a zip code away, in another school’s ethos. The day aimed to provide an opportunity for students to broaden their perspective of people who are different from themselves and create a more accepting view of others as a result of the personal, positive experiences the Cultural Exchange would inevitably bring. 
            Beginning the day with ice-breaking activities, students got to know one another by sharing names, backgrounds and learning the personalities of their visitors. After connecting with their assigned partners, students set out on their academic day, attending classes, completing tasks and gaining insight into the daily routine of an Amityville student. Social spots such as the cafeteria and hallways provided a chance for Plainedge students to interact with their hosts, and to witness firsthand the high energy and community pride that drives Amityville Memorial High School and the district at large.    
            After a day of unity, students reconvened in the library to reflect on their time together. Amityville student-leader hosts commented on the similarities between the two groups and how well Plainedge students fit into their school day. Plainedge students were  grateful for the opportunity to visit Amityville, and commented in awe on the respect and kindness students expressed towards their teachers and one another around the building. The Cultural Exchange was such a great success for all involved, that teacher and program coordinator Jason McGowan has plans to arrange another trip for Amityville students to visit the Plainedge School District in the spring.

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