BY KELI GILE
Suzanne students dance with teacher Helen Papadopoulos during Greek Day held on April 25
(Photo Courtesy-Kelli Gile)
Walnut – OPA! Togo-wearing students at Suzanne Middle School joined in the fun of a Greek Festival on April 25. Over 350 6th Graders learned an authentic Greek dance by Math and Drama Teacher, Helen Papadopoulos. Mrs. Pop, as she is called, proudly shared her culture with the students.
“It was great to be able to share a part of my culture with my drama kids and have them help to share it with the 6th graders. Dancing is something that started in ancient Greece and we are still doing those same dances today!” she said. Once the music began, the kids joined hands and formed circles, dancing round and round, then faster and faster.
Most of the students and staff members fashioned their outfits from pastel-colored sheets and fabric. Some wore traditional floral and ivy garlands. Advisor George Ann Cusson even sewed her Greek Day dress from a shower curtain.
After their morning dance lesson, students played Greek games and sampled Greek food. The festival also included readings of Greek literature.
