May. 28, 2026
Students at
Crossing Park School marked Asian Heritage Month with meaningful learning experiences in their Grade 7 Humanities classes, exploring Canadian history through the lens of cultural identity and heritage.
The classroom came alive as students engaged in projects that examined key historical moments connected to the Indian subcontinent and the experiences of immigrants in Canada. Through their research, students not only explored the past but also made thoughtful connections to present-day Canadian society and the diverse communities that shape it.
For many students, the work was deeply personal. Grade 7 student Japleen said the project felt especially meaningful. “While doing the research, I felt like I could connect to it a lot. It felt like this was my history," she shared.
Another student, Prabhjot, reflected on the emotional impact of the learning process. “When we were doing the research, I was able to see how our heritage and culture came into Canada. It was really touching," he said.
The initiative also encouraged collaboration and shared learning. Students presented their projects not only to their classmates but also to Grade 9 students, creating opportunities for cross-grade learning.
Through these discussions, students discovered new perspectives. Darsh noted that she learned about the internment of Japanese Canadians during the Second World War, gaining insight into how historical injustices continue to shape present-day conversations.
Beyond the Classroom
The project extended beyond the classroom, culminating in participation at the Calgary & Central Alberta Regional Heritage School Fair held at Heritage Park in early May. Several students represented their school, showcasing their research and creativity.
Among them was Grade 7 student Neha, who earned top recognition in the “Best of Grade 7" category for her project,
Indigenous Art and the Impact of the Indian Act. Her work explored how colonial policies affected Indigenous artistic expression in Canada.
Neha drew connections between this history and her own background. Reflecting on conversations with her grandmother, she explained how Western influences also impacted traditional art forms in Bangladesh.
Through her project, Neha aimed to raise awareness about the broader effects of these influences on cultures around the world, including Indigenous communities in Canada.
Overall, the Asian Heritage Month activities fostered curiosity, empathy, and a deeper sense of identity among students. The experience highlighted the importance of culturally responsive learning and the value of understanding history through multiple perspectives.
As Grade 7 student Mehreet summed it up best, “We want to keep learning about different cultures, histories, and experiences," she said. “We want other students to have opportunities like this too!"
