Books Bring Cultures and Families Together at Pomona Elementary

The following is a press release from the Newport-Mesa Unified School District and does not reflect editorial work done by Spotlight Schools. Submit a press release to Spotlight Schools by emailing hello@spotlightschools.com.

Books open doors to more than reading. They introduce students to new places and perspectives, spark conversations about family traditions, and give students opportunities to share what they know with the people they love.

That approach came to life during Pomona Elementary’s Multicultural Celebration, where students and families explored books and cultures through games, art, dance, and storytime. Each activity connected a children’s book with a country, giving students opportunities to share what they learned while celebrating Pomona’s diverse community.

Learning began in classrooms, where teachers introduced the featured books. “Our students come from diverse backgrounds, and it’s important we celebrate everyone. Experiences like this help students learn about how people live in other countries and develop an appreciation for the world around them,” said teacher Stacy deBoom-Howard.

Building on classroom learning, each activity included a family discussion question that encouraged students to explain their thinking, make connections, and practice oral language, a schoolwide focus this year. These conversations helped students develop the communication and critical thinking skills emphasized in NMUSD’s Portrait of a Graduate.

“We want students to see that literacy isn't limited to reading a book in the classroom,” added Andrea Balli, Pomona’s literacy teacher on special assignment. “It can happen through conversations, games, art, movement, and shared experiences.”

Family participation is central to Pomona’s approach to literacy. By reading, playing, and creating alongside their children, families see firsthand how everyday activities build language and comprehension skills. The celebration also brings to life NMUSD’s Strategic Plan focus on strengthening connections between schools and families, while building pride in Pomona’s diverse community.

“It makes me feel good as a mom to know how much the school really cares for the students. My children are learning so much every day, and I love hearing their stories and sharing in their community,” said Andrea Rubalcava, a parent of two students. “I’m so proud of all they’ve accomplished.”

For students, the celebration offered a chance to share their learning and discover more about the world. Second-grader Valentina, a proud AVID ambassador, said, “It makes me happy to be here, and I love learning about other people and places.”

For Principal Jane Choi, these experiences support academic growth while helping students feel valued. “When students see themselves reflected in their school, it sends a message that they matter and that their identities are valued,” Ms. Choi said. “We want school to be a place where every child feels seen, included, and celebrated.”