2024 National French Week Chez Mercy
The American Association of Teachers of French (AATF) organized the 22nd annual French Week which took place in schools, communities and the AATF chapters across the U.S. from November 6-12, 2024. The theme this year was Le Français - La Langue Globale (French - The Global Language).
Mercy French students celebrated all things French throughout the week and invited the whole school to become involved with our Trivia contest of French culture, the Guessing of the number of French chocolate truffles in the jar and listening to French music during class exchange. Prayer was also said in French in the morning and in the afternoon with the coordination and help of Mrs. Becker. Our amazing cafe Chef Mia, Mrs. Anne Hallberg and the cafe team put together a phenomenal menu of choices of authentic foods from the Francophone world which were absolutely délicieux! The students also participated in two other culinary adventures during the week. Many parents chose to dine with their daughters and participated in our annual trip to Cuisine Restaurant (Detroit News Restaurant of the Year). Chef Paul and his team prepared a dinner menu for us, very typical of traditional French cooking. It was such a fun and wonderful event with such wonderful parent participation.
French students participated in an in-school field trip on November 11 to hear about the journey of renowned Chef Jared Grabow, owner of Oak and Reel restaurant in Detroit, to become a renowned Michelin Chef. He spoke to us about his training and experiences from all over the world. Following his presentation, Chef Jared invited the students to make omelettes with him and his wife Abbey. Every student had the chance to sample the perfect omelette. This interactive experience was the highlight of the day and many students went home to reinvent that perfect French omelette!
The students also enjoyed Crepe Day, with a presentation about crêpes which originated in Bretagne, France. We are grateful to Mrs. Gawne and Mrs. Fusco who donated their time to help Madame Campbell to make crêpes.
The week ended with the painting of indigenous flowers in France. The students researched their flower and reported to the class the symbolism and historical significance of France. The activity was supported by Ms. Susan Smith and Mrs. Missy Kreucher with their kind donation of supplies and materials. The students took their water color painting home in a matching frame. What a wonderful souvenir of the week.
Sydney Wilker won the National French Week Tee-shirt contest, voted by faculty, because she best displayed the theme and an aspect of French culture. Lastly, Chizy Nwoke was responsible for decorating the MAC with a table displaying all things French. Thank you for your energy and passion for all things French!