Parade of Nations: a BHS Pastime

American Flag being carried by Mr. Gruendel and three lucky students at the 2012 Parade of Nations.
American Flag being carried by Mr. Gruendel and three lucky students at the 2012 Parade of Nations.
By: Matilda Krieder At the beginning of every school year, Branford High School presents a unique Parade of Nations ceremony featuring speeches and music that center around respecting diversity within our school community. It serves as a kickoff for a school year full of growth, achievement, and unity. The highlight of the celebration seems to be the parade of students and faculty carrying flags that represent over 80 nationalities. This year the Parade of Nations will take place at 9:00 a.m. Friday, September 13th in the BHS Commons. This event aims to remind students that they have both significant differences and unifying similarities to celebrate. It teaches that it is up to the student body to become as strong as they can be and to help one another do the same. Every student has something unique to offer, and every student has a place in the BHS community. As Principal Lee Panagoulias said in his speech at last year’s Parade of Nations, “we know what makes each of us different is what makes each of us better.”