Feel Good Story: TCES Travels the World by Hosting International Family Night on Campus

February 28, 2025
Timber Creek Elementary Travels the World by Hosting International Family Night on Campus

Timber Creek Elementary hosted its Second Annual International Family Night, which brought 37 countries and regions to life by showcasing homemade dishes, cultural activities and games, art, music, clothing, authentic artifacts, and student research.

International Night began last school year under the direction of TCES Emergent Bilingual Specialist Heather Ling. An event that had 14 countries and regions represented grew exponentially to 37 countries and regions during this year’s event.

“My vision of hosting an International Family Night was to celebrate diversity, foster inclusion, and build a sense of community,” Ling said. “To allow students and their families to share and learn about different cultures, traditions, and experiences, helping to break down barriers and create mutual respect was important. It also served as an opportunity for parents to engage with one another, form connections, and participate in their children’s education.”

Timber Creek has a diverse school community and International Family Night enables families and staff to interact in a fun family-friendly environment. 

“Timber Creek is so fortunate to have such a rich cultural diversity within our community,” Tara Bailey, TCES Principal said. “Our students not only engage with the standard curriculum but also immerse themselves in cultures from around the world.”

The 2025 event featured participation from the teachers who joined the students and families. 

“Last year we only had parents share about their cultures and traditions, but this year all the teachers participated in the event by showcasing a country that either represented their heritage or played an important role in their lives,” said Pinky Yuskiewicz, TCES Advanced Academic Specialist.

During the event, each student received a passport as they embarked on an adventure around the world. As the students traveled from country to region to country, they received stamps as they delved deeper into the culture and heritage of 37 countries.

Teachers were able to use this event as a teaching opportunity, incorporating lessons about different cultures and traditions into their curriculum.

Joining Bailey, Ling, and Yuskiewicz in playing an instrumental role in the success of International Family Night was TCES PTO and Parent of the Event Committee Lopa Kapur.

“Thank you to the hardworking teachers for incorporating cultural research into their classrooms, and to our amazing volunteers who generously shared their heritage with us,” Bailey noted. “Our student leaders were exceptional, helping teach others about their unique cultures at each table.”