Preserving Greek Heritage: OXI Day Celebration at The Greek School of Plato

In the heart of Brooklyn, the spirit of Greece came alive at The Greek School of Plato on Saturday, October 28th, as students, teachers, parents, and community members gathered to celebrate the anniversary of ‘OXI‘ Day. The auditorium buzzed with excitement and pride, echoing with the voices of young learners who passionately sang, recited poems, and narrated historical events. The event, a testament to the unwavering dedication of the school’s staff and the support of the community, showcased the school’s commitment to preserving Greek heritage and instilling cultural pride in the younger generation.

A Vibrant Celebration of Heritage

The event was a vibrant tapestry of Greek culture and history. Students, ranging from preschoolers to eighth graders, took the stage with confidence and enthusiasm, narrating tales of heroic deeds and historical events. Their performances not only evoked emotions but also stirred a sense of pride and nostalgia for Greece among the attendees. The celebration was a powerful reminder of the importance of passing down traditions, language, and customs to the new generations, ensuring the rich tapestry of Greek heritage endures through time.

Acknowledging Dedication and Professionalism

The success of the event was a result of the dedication and professionalism of the teaching staff, whose tireless efforts were acknowledged by the principal, Petros Fourniotis. He congratulated the teachers – Katerina Koulianou, Nancy Panagopoulos, Maria Marinakis, Aikaterini Bliatza, Panagiota Kokkoros, Varvara Kosmatou, Elsa Kaounis, Efi Kitsanta, Paris Papadatos, Anastasia Eleftheriadis, Dimitra Tsafos, Orestis Petridis, Apostoli Papadatos, Ioannis Tornikidis, and Georgia Kopani – for their commitment to the students’ progress.

Community Unity and Support

Spiridon Geroulanos, the president of the Board of Directors, expressed his pride in the school’s achievements and emphasized the unity within the community. He commended the students for their exceptional efforts in honoring the national holiday and acknowledged the parents for their love and support. He highlighted the collective endeavor of the community, stating, “Many people contribute whatever they can so that our children, the new generation, can learn the Greek language, values, customs, and traditions of our homeland. We are very happy that the school is growing and progressing constantly. This progress gives us the strength to make even greater efforts for its further development.”

A Community United for Heritage Preservation

Kostas Karkas, the president of the educational council and vice president of the Board of Directors, reiterated the school’s significance as a cultural cornerstone. He emphasized that The Greek School of Plato is more than an educational institution; it is a community of compatriots fighting together for the preservation and perpetuation of Greek language, culture, and civilization. The school stands as a beacon, illuminating the path for the younger generation to embrace their heritage proudly.

The president of the Parents’ Association, Maria Koukouli-Karka, thanked all the members for their help in organizing the celebration, congratulated the students for the program they presented, and emphasized that the purpose of the 19 parents of the association is to help make school life easier, more creative, and more enjoyable for students, parents, and teachers.

The OXI Day celebrations at The Greek School of Plato in Brooklyn were not just a moment in time; they were a testament to the enduring spirit of a community united in its mission to preserve heritage and inspire generations. As the young voices resonated through the auditorium, they carried with them the legacy of a rich cultural heritage, ensuring that the flame of Greek pride continues to burn brightly in the hearts of future generations. The event served as a reminder that cultural preservation is not just a duty; it is a shared commitment that unites communities and shapes the identity of generations to come.

Information & photos sourced from The National Herald