From across North America and South America to Africa, Europe, and Asia, a parade of nations recently marched through the gym of Campbell High School. It’s a tradition dating back about three decades. Campbell’s annual International Festival provides students the opportunity to learn about the diverse cultures that fill the halls of their high school.

“For anyone entering our school, the first impression may very well be our diversity. The second impression will most likely be just how united we are. These two factors make our school very special, and these positive elements culminate during our annual International Festival, where we celebrate our amazing diversity. This event begins with the Parade of Nations, and then students display their culture and heritage with music, songs, dance, fashion shows, and other unique talents and performances. Campbell High School is a place where everyone can take pride in their culture, heritage, religion, race, and ethnic background,” said Gene Eybelman, Campbell Department Chair of English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL.)

The Campbell students prepared performances like folkloric dances from Mexico and Nicaragua or the “Bharathanatyam,” a South Indian dance. The Escolta Nueva Band presented one of the musical performances. The festival included fashion shows of cultural attire from Asia and Africa. Plus, a colorful array of ball gowns floated around the gym as part of the parade of students wearing their Quinceañera dresses.

The National French Honor Society, Caribbean Student Union, freshmen cheer, and individual students also added to the celebration of cultures at the festival. 

“Seeing the enthusiasm, pride, and support for each other from all of our students is always a highlight, and every year students are energized to display their very best,” added the Campbell ESOL educator. 

Campbell is also home to one of the Cobb County School District’s elite magnet programs. Campbell became an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and the first academic-based magnet program in the District in 1997.

The Inside Scoop: International Baccalaureate Magnet at Campbell High School