SOMS World Language Students Visit Arthur Avenue

Last Thursday, South Orangetown Middle School eighth grade Italian language students traveled to Arthur Avenue to learn about Italian culture. On their annual field trip, students visited several local businesses to learn about the history of the neighborhood and to see how they prepare their Italian-American delicacies. 

“We have been learning about Italian food and Italian food culture, so it is a great review. Arthur Avenue is nicknamed ‘Little Italy’ and we had the opportunity to see stores that have been around for three or four generations,” explained SOMS World Language teacher Christina Nilson. The students were able to stuff cannoli’s at Egidio’s, learned how Addeo’s prepares and bakes bread and saw how to prepare the ingredients for an antipasto at Mike’s Deli in the market. They also walked through Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church after learning about the history of how and why it was built. 

“I think it’s important that the students see how even though we are not in Italy, Italian culture has helped shape our society. Some students have Italian heritage, and they learn why their ancestors moved to America and how they adapted and infused their old culture with their new one when they arrived. In a traditional Italian town, there are different shops for each type of food and it is amazing that a neighborhood still exists just like that so close to our home,” said Nilson. “Even if the students don’t have Italian heritage, they can see firsthand how immigrants have helped to shape our culture and make connections with their own family’s story.”