On Oct. 7, Shaker Middle School’s 7th and 8th Grade German Club enjoyed a wonderful field trip to the German American Club in Albany. Here, students experienced German culture and traditions through hands-on activities, creativity, and community connections.

During their visit, students rolled up their sleeves to bake traditional German sugar cookies and created arts and crafts in preparation for the club’s upcoming Christkindlmarkt. The afternoon offered students an opportunity to take their learning beyond the classroom and experience German traditions in an authentic, engaging way.

This experience reflects the ongoing efforts of our SMS German teacher, Frau Reeves to build meaningful partnerships with community organizations and create real-world opportunities for students to connect with the German language and culture.

"By fostering relationships beyond the school walls, Frau Reeves is helping students see how language learning comes alive through cultural experiences and connections with the broader community," said World Languages and ENL Department Supervisor Dr. Trini Hernandez.

Thank you to Frau Burnt, an active member of the German American Club in Albany, for warmly welcoming and hosting our students, making the afternoon a memorable experience. A special thank you also goes to Frau Reeves and Herr Kaercher for accompanying our German Club members and making this visit possible.

"We are fortunate to have such a valuable partnership with the German American Club in Albany,"said Dr. Hernandez. "Experiences like this enrich our students’ learning, deepen their appreciation for German traditions, and strengthen their connections to the German-American community. Vielen Dank to the German American Club in Albany for welcoming our students and helping make language learning meaningful beyond the classroom! We look forward to continuing this fruitful partnership and creating more authentic cultural experiences for our students."