Montessori students learn about Asian cultures, languages

HARLINGEN - Students from the Montessori Academy of Harlingen visited Casa Rama, a historic bed and breakfast inn on Taylor Avenue, on Friday in advance of Asian American Heritage Month, which is May.

Clarissa Rama, the bed and breakfast's owner, is originally from the Philippines and taught the students about Philippine culture, clothing, food, collectibles and languages.

Rama, who has lived in the Unites States for more than 35 years, also prepared a Philippine-style lunch for the students.

Special guest Nila Wipf also spoke about Philippine traditions and Rachel Khoo, mother of Jeremy Khoo, a student at the school, spoke about Malaysia and its culture, language and traditions.

Rama said she was pleased to host the Montessori students because it is important to raise awareness of all cultures in the community.

"We could have more peace and harmony in the world if we have more understanding about our (cultural) differences," Rama said.

Wipf said exposing children to other cultures teaches them tolerance.

"The more you know of other people in other countries, the better the chance for peace," Wipf said. "It's one world. We're all brothers and sisters."

People of all cultures play, cry and feel happiness, Rachel Khoo said.

"We're all the same - we eat, we work hard, we study hard," Rachel Khoo said. "We are all connected to each other."

Montessori Academy Principal Angela Abrego said the school follows Maria Montessori's educational foundation and philosophy.

"The more we know about each other, the less the differences in the world," Abrego said.

A place like Casa Rama, at 1102 E. Taylor Ave. - which offers authentic and historical artifacts and values - makes learning about other cultures a realistic experience for students, Abrego said.

John Ramirez, a fourth-grade student at the academy, said he enjoyed learning about the Asian dance, music and materials used for clothing.

"It's important that we know (about other cultures) and they know us," Ramirez said. "That way we can get together and create friendships between countries around the world."

Evelon Dale, the mother of student Alyssa Dale, said teaching students about a variety of ethnic groups and cultures prepares them for life in an ethnically diverse society and benefits them intellectually and emotionally.

Students also learned about Mexican-American, Native American and African-American cultures throughout this school year. They also studied Women's History Month.