Pennsylvania is known for its rich and deep German roots, with millions of people across the state claiming German heritage. This heritage also shines here in Bethel Park, which can explain the high school’s prominent and long-running German language program.
Oct. 3 was International German Day, so starting Monday, Oct. 7, the German program is celebrating Bethel Park’s heritage with German Spirit Week.
Each day will have a specific theme relating to aspects of German culture. The themes are as follows:
- Monday, Oct. 7- German Flag (Black, Red, Yellow)
- Tuesday, Oct 8- Bavaria/Oktoberfest (Blue, White)
- Wednesday, Oct 9- German Brands/ Logos
- Thursday, Oct 10- Soccer
- Friday, Oct 11- Fanta Orange
Along with the themed days, German classes will be celebrating with a field trip this Monday. Students will go to the Bethel Park Schoolhouse Arts and History Center, to watch the “Germans in America” presentation provided by the Heinz History Center.
German classes are also participating in friendly classroom competitions. Each level of German will do a coin drive dedicated to the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh. Each cent that is donated equates to one point, and students can earn more points by taking part in the theme days.
By the end of the week, the class with the most points will earn five bonus points towards their German grade.
Make sure to recognize German heritage this week by partaking in this Spirit Week!