A Celebration of Cultures: OLA Hosts First Annual Parade of Nations

On Monday, June 23, Our Lady of the Assumption School proudly held its first annual Parade of Nations, a joyful and meaningful celebration of the many cultures that make up the vibrant school community.

The event saw the entire student body take part, with each group taking turns parading around the school gym, proudly waving handmade flags and many students wearing traditional cultural attire. Parents were invited to attend, filling the space with excitement and support for this special showcase of global identity and unity.

“We have so many different places from around the world represented here in our students,” said Principal Meghan Calder. “The Parade of Nations was a great way to celebrate the diversity that is truly a gift to OLA—a fun and meaningful way for everyone to wear their outfits, make a flag, and celebrate together at the end of the school year.”

As part of the school’s commitment to inclusion and global awareness, the event highlighted nearly 30 nations represented by OLA students—many of whom are newcomers or refugees with rich and varied life experiences.

“We want all of our students to come here and feel seen and welcomed, regardless of where they come from,” Calder added. “Some of our refugee students have come through many different places, and to have everyone feel like this is home is one of our main goals.”

The planning for the Parade of Nations began earlier in June when students were invited to spend an hour designing their flags and preparing for the celebration. That single hour quickly turned into something more.

“It turned out not to be enough time,” Calder shared. “The students were taking this idea and running with it. They wanted to do more. We set aside another hour and it just kept growing into what we saw today.”

As an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) school, OLA places a strong emphasis on global mindedness, student voice, and intercultural understanding—values that were clearly on display during the parade.

“We want our students to be globally aware,” said Calder. “What can we learn from one another? From our cultures, our languages, our stories? By learning about each other, we grow—and today, that growth was visible in every flag, every smile, and every step in the parade.”

The Parade of Nations was not only a celebration of diversity, but also a shining example of what happens when students are given the freedom and encouragement to lead. As Calder put it, “It’s always about seeing what the students will do—having them find agency within themselves and lead the group. That’s exactly what they did today.”

With the success of its first year, the Parade of Nations is poised to become a beloved annual tradition at OLA—one that reflects the school’s heart, values, and commitment to welcoming every child, from every corner of the world.