Just by dropping by Paisley Middle School on Thursday night, people can visit more than 20 countries and travel back to ancient Rome.
The school's eighth annual international festival is a way for families that already have students in the International Baccalaureate program at the school to introduce the magnet program to students and parents in the wider community.
"It's a way that we can show what our school is all about," said Jane Kane, a parent and co-chairwoman of the festival.
At the festival, students, teachers and parents will set up tables representing such countries as China, Brazil, Iran, South Africa, Cuba and Thailand. At each table, festival-goers can sample a food from that country as well as check out crafts and art associated with the country. For instance, one IB student has made origami.
Festival-goers can also take a yoga class, examine artifacts on loan from the Wake Forest University Museum of Anthropology or watch performances by Irish dancers as well as members of the chorus and the drama club.
Most middle schools have only grades six through eight. At Paisley, students who enroll in the IB magnet program have the option of staying at the school for its IB program through the 10th grade and going on to Parkland High School for their junior and senior years in the IB diploma program there.
Kane has two children in the program -- Bo, a ninth-grader, and Kendall, a seventh-grader. Everyone in the family is pleased with the program, she said. It offers not only the same challenge as an academically gifted program but also such extras as a global perspective. She also likes that community service an integral part of the IB program.
"It offers them an extremely well-rounded, diverse education," Kane said.
In advance, admission is $5 person or $20 a family. At the door, admission is $6 a person. Proceeds will go toward supporting the IB program. The festival is scheduled for 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the school at 1400 Grant St. The school's number is 727-2775.
kunderwood@wsjournal.com
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