SOUTH BEND, Ind. — From Christmas trees to prayer beads to Menorahs,
the kids at Montessori Academy got a dose of culture and holiday cheer.

Students gathered in the auditorium to sing songs, celebrate and learn about faiths and traditions from around the globe.

Teachers said it is not just fun, but an important lesson in diversity.

"We are getting our students ready for the world they are going into," said Naz Kahn. "The more they know about the different religions of the world, the different people of the world, the easier it will be for them to forge their way and get ahead in life."

The day included lesson not just Christmas but also Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan and Buddhist and Hindu festivals.