It was a celebration with a cultural twist.

More than 90 students in the district’s English as a Second Language program attended classes this month to improve their academic performance and English.

Thursday, June 30 at Tuggle Elementary, those students participated in a closing ceremony at the school’s gym, which included native dances, songs and a parade of costumes from nearly 20 countries. Authentic Latino food prepared by parents was also served.

During the regular school year, about 900 Birmingham students are in the English as a Second Language program. Students new to America knowing limited or no English, are enrolled in the English as a Second Language program. It helps students make major strides in English and other areas.

The summer program gives students academic support so that when they return to school, they will go in with a stronger grasp of all academic subjects. Here’s a look at some of the photos from the program.

Students particpate in a cultural celebration as part of English as a Second Language program. (Photos courtesy of Chanda Temple/Birmingham City Schools)

Students particpate in a cultural celebration as part of English as a Second Language program. (Photos courtesy of Chanda Temple/Birmingham City Schools)

Students particpate in a cultural celebration as part of English as a Second Language program. (Photos courtesy of Chanda Temple/Birmingham City Schools)

Students particpate in a cultural celebration as part of English as a Second Language program. (Photos courtesy of Chanda Temple/Birmingham City Schools)

Students particpate in a cultural celebration as part of English as a Second Language program. (Photos courtesy of Chanda Temple/Birmingham City Schools)

Students particpate in a cultural celebration as part of English as a Second Language program. (Photos courtesy of Chanda Temple/Birmingham City Schools)

Teachers who participated in the English as a Second Language program at Tuggle Elementary (Photo courtesy of Chanda Temple/Birmingham City Schools)