Members of Avon's International Club enjoyed authentic Puerto Rican food and learned a bit about Puerto Rican culture during a field trip to Boriken Restaurant in Mount Morris last week.

The Boriken Restaurant in Mount Morris was kind enough to welcome students in our International Club for a lunchtime field trip last week. 

International Club is for students in grades seven through 12 who are interested in learning about cultures from around the world and practicing their language skills, said advisor Kaitlyn Altamura, an ESL teacher in the high school. 

Earlier this year, for example, the club teamed up with community members to create an authentic altar for Día de los Muertos, which was celebrated on Nov. 1, 2021. Students helped decorate an altar in the library and learned about some of the traditions around Día de los Muertos, said Altamura. 

On March 18, club members traveled to Mount Morris to try authentic Puerto Rican food like mofongo, empanadas and tostones at Boriken, which is owned by Melanie Alvarez Santiago, sister of 2020 Avon graduate Glerie Gonzalez. 

“The students were able to enjoy delicious Puerto Rican food that many had never tried before, and learn a bit about Puerto Rican culture,” said Altamura. "Glerie was actually our waitress for the field trip - we love to support local!"

In April, Altamura is planning to bring in a community member from Ukraine to speak with club members about Ukrainian culture, food and language. 

Members of Avon's International Club enjoyed authentic Puerto Rican food and learned a bit about Puerto Rican culture during a field trip to Boriken Restaurant in Mount Morris last week.