Park View Middle School is a community built on diversity and understanding differences.

During the Multicultural Night event held May 9, students had a chance to share, explain and learn about the different cultures represented within the school’s community. The theme for this year’s event, hosted by the social studies department, was “History is a Tapestry.”

The 65 students from the All-Star team put on a “Wax Museum” as part of the gathering. Student presenters dressed in costume to portray famous figures from throughout history. Categories included presidents and world leaders, scientists, explorers, athletes, artists, inventors, entertainers and freedom fighters.

Students from the Game Changer team created the National History Day and Wall of Flags activity. Projects were based on the National History Day project, and the theme this year was “Triumph and Tragedy.”

Immigration was the theme for Phoenix team. They made immigration suitcases and biographies. The Seven Wonders team created a Culture Museum, which had a cultural artifact display board highlighting students’ individual cultural heritages. Students on the Crazy Eights created videos showcasing anti-bullying messages that correlated with their civil rights unit.

Black History Month was the focus of the Patriots team, while Team Elements created a quilt, dubbed “Flags of our Heritage.”

Several students dressed in traditional cultural costumes courtesy of Jean Fryburg. A large selection of international food delicacies was provided thanks to culinary students at the Cranston Area Career & Technical Center.

As has become tradition, the unofficial favorite food of the evening was the churro. New choices this year were crepe suzette and saffron rice.

“I really enjoyed seeing all the kids working so hard. My grandson was very proud to be here,” Inez Rodriguez said.