RSIR collaborates with local childcare center for interschool fun

Annual day camp fosters cross-cultural connections and brings youngsters together

Jessica Woo, Editor in Chief

December 6, 2024

First-graders Brian Hwang, Sienna Woo, and Leo Dzunwien Biern eagerly await the next set of games, their excitement evident as they watch the action unfold.

As autumn gave way to winter chill, youngsters from kindergarten to third grade joined children from Kkomjirak (꼼지락) Child Care Center at the Elementary Day Camp hosted by Research Services for Immigrants and Refugees (RSIR) on Nov. 16. The new guests enhanced the program and left both groups filled with joy and laughter by the end of the event.

The idea for this collaboration came from RSIR club members. Senior Sunny Oh, president of RSIR, said, “I first visited the care center for volunteer opportunities. Over time, the lady in charge asked if we could hold an event where the kids from the center visit our school. In a previous RSIR meeting, we discussed inviting students from other schools to this year’s Day Camp, so I proposed combining the two ideas.”

The program offered meaningful exchanges with children from diverse backgrounds while encouraging them to use English in real-life conversations. The day featured four activity stations: basketball, soccer, parachute games, and a creative arts area. These stations promoted teamwork and active participation, keeping everyone engaged and energized throughout the event.

The children from the center experienced new backgrounds as well. Hyun Jin Lee, the leader of the center, said, “We loved watching the kids build their English skills as they interacted with students from Daegu International School. The experience created a fun and positive environment for everyone involved.”

The collaboration between DIS and Kkomjirak unfolded smoothly, highlighting the value of creating inclusive opportunities for children to learn, connect, and grow together. RSIR plans to hold another day camp next semester to offer hands-on activities and collaborative opportunities.

About the Contributors

Jessica Woo, Editor in Chief

A six year veteran in the Flyover, Jessica Woo returns as a senior for her final Jets Flyover year. As an engaged student who loves to read and write, Jessica loves to help other students improve and always attempts to step up as a writer herself. Jessica loves to communicate and delivers informative messages to the DIS community. As much as she adores writing, Jessica deems herself a baseball-holic and attempts to watch every game if possible.

Brian Cho, Broadcast Journalist and Photographer

Brian Cho, a beginner broadcast journalist and also a photographer, enters his first foray into video production and yearbook design. Brian has a strong interest in digital design. Additionally, influenced by the reputation of the Yearbook team, he has joined and is currently an active member of the DIS Yearbook team. As the Head of Designer in HOSA and the Historian/Webmaster for NAHS, Brian developed a keen interest in art and design.

William Seok, Photographer

Junior William Seok enters his first venture into yearbook design. He wants to pursue a major in business and displays an ambitious spirit as he engages in soccer tournaments, math competitions, and other STEM activities. Outside of school, he hits the gym to maintain physical fitness through a regular workout routine. When he finds time for leisure at home, he fills his evenings with martial arts and European soccer leagues.