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As schools continue to welcome students from around the world, cultural awareness plays an essential role in building inclusive, supportive learning environments. At Cambridge Network, we believe that recognizing and understanding cultural and world holidays is a meaningful way for schools to support their international students while fostering global awareness across campus.
International students often observe holidays that reflect their cultural, religious, or national traditions—many of which may not align with the U.S. academic calendar. While these holidays may look different from familiar U.S. observances, they are deeply significant to students’ identities, families, and communities back home. Awareness of these moments helps schools create environments where students feel seen, respected, and supported.
Below are three commonly observed holidays represented in many international school programs, along with why they matter to students.
Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year is celebrated across many East and Southeast Asian cultures, including China, Vietnam, and South Korea. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is one of the most important family-centered holidays of the year. Traditions often include family reunions, honoring ancestors, special meals, and cultural customs that symbolize renewal and good fortune. For students studying abroad, this holiday can be especially meaningful—and sometimes difficult—when celebrated far from home.
Diwali (Festival of Lights)
Diwali is a major cultural and religious holiday observed primarily by students from India and parts of South Asia. Often referred to as the Festival of Lights, Diwali represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrations typically include lighting lamps, sharing sweets, spending time with family, and reflecting on gratitude and renewal. Awareness of Diwali helps schools recognize an important cultural moment for many students.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a holy month of fasting and reflection observed by Muslim students worldwide. The holiday is celebrated with prayers, charitable giving, and gatherings with family and community. During Ramadan, students may be fasting during daylight hours, which can impact energy levels and daily routines. Understanding this observance allows schools to approach this time with empathy and flexibility.
What Schools Can Do to Support Cultural Awareness
Schools play a vital role in helping international students feel connected—especially during important cultural holidays. Small, thoughtful actions can make a lasting impact:
- Acknowledge cultural holidays in school announcements, newsletters, or calendars when possible.
- Encourage classroom conversations that invite students to share their traditions, if they feel comfortable doing so.
- Practice empathy and flexibility during major observances, including fasting periods or important holiday dates.
- Partner with host families and support staff to ensure students feel supported during holidays that may increase homesickness.
- Incorporate global learning opportunities by connecting cultural holidays to classroom lessons or advisory programming.
Strengthening International Programs Through Awareness
When schools recognize and honor cultural holidays, they create an environment where diversity is not just present—but embraced. These moments of awareness support international student well-being while offering meaningful learning opportunities for domestic students, encouraging curiosity, respect, and global citizenship.
At Cambridge Network, we believe cultural awareness strengthens international programs and builds bridges of understanding within school communities. By honoring the traditions that matter to students, schools take an important step toward fostering global harmony—preparing all students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
If you have any questions on how to build your international awareness in schools, [email protected]
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