Someone once said the beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people.

Straughn Middle School students are embarking on an enrichment journey this year that takes them through the heritage of different groups of Americans.

November is Native American month, and on Thursday The Bartley family represented the Poarch Creek Indians.

Organized by SMS student Katelyn Pettie, students had the opportunity to learn some words in the Creek language, learn more information about the Poarch Creek Indians and listen to twins – Ellie Grace and Bella Claire Bartley – sing songs such as “Jesus Loves Me” in the Creek language.

The twins are first generation Poarch Creek Indians.

SMS teacher Karen Ziglar said that every year the teachers struggle to come up with enrichment activities.

She said that she and teacher Paula Simpson needed to work on two standards, one of which was cultural.

“We decided to recognize each of the heritage months,” she said. “The students are learning about the different heritages. They have learned a lot. The students enjoy the creativeness.”

In October, students celebrated Italian American heritage and in September, they celebrated Hispanic and Latino heritage month.

In February, they will learn more about African Americans, she said.

“My class will do Christmas traditions around the world in December,” she said.

Also participating is Marci Farley and Shea Supri, who are also seventh grade teachers.