Every year Debra Salas’s 10th grade English class reads “Siddhartha” in preparation for the junior AP English exam. However, Salas does not intend to just discuss this spiritual novel with the class – she wants her students to experience it.
On Thursday, February 17, the school library was transformed into an enriching replica of Siddhartha’s lifestyle. Filled with yoga, meditation and Indian cuisine, the lively even blended Indian culture and history.
“We just finished an exhausting analysis of Siddhartha and I feel strongly about having the cultural experience transcend into the classroom,” Salas said. “The kids really wanted to take learning to the next level.”
With the help of Librarian Lorelee Manheiner and English Department Head Andrea Spivack, Salas was able to make this event possible for her students.
“It added to the experience of learning about Buddhism and providing culture.” Sophomore Brittany Bendeck said. “We really observed and experienced the spiritual ways of Siddhartha.”
Salas, who has been practicing yoga and meditating for 22 years, set up a meditation area for the students and offered to teach yoga poses as well.
“Yoga and meditation are really a part of me. I can go home and have my Zen zone,” Salas said.
The cost of admission to the event was eight dollars, which covered the Indian food, including curry chicken, Naan bread and Badam Milk. Some students felt the price was too high.
“Sure it relates to Indian culture, but I think it’s a little overpriced,” sophomore Robbie Dillon said. “Plus, Siddhartha starved himself in the book and now we are having a feast; it just doesn’t make sense.”
According to Salas, the event was a success because of the few students that volunteered and took charge of organizing.
Volunteer sophomore Chris Fisk helped run food distribution and music. He says that the committee’s goal of widening horizons and enlightenment was achieved.
“Mrs. Salas is such an amazing teacher and she had so many people at her feet willing to help her,” Fisk said. “She is an amazing example in so many ways and truly pulled off this event.”
