The objectives of the program are as follows: • To underline the diversity of the Greek language, to emphasize the archangelic dialect and how it affects the identity of individuals. • Respect for the valuable element of culture, the linguistic heritage. • Promotion of local traditions, customs, culture, cultural values. • Deepening the concept of intangible cultural heritage through European programs. • Contact with other teachers and not only in Europe, in order to exchange ideas, opinions, innovative practices and strategies. • To become partners in the effort to spread a cultural education and consciousness. • To rid the children of the feeling of shame in relation to the local dialect. • The general acceptance of interculturalism. • The creation of the capacity of empathy. • Twinning with GEL Aperio Karpathos, in the context of exchange.
GEL Archangelou is located on the central eastern coast of the island of Rhodes. It is one of its oldest schools and also serves the neighboring villages. The relatively isolated position of the village has contributed to the preservation of the archangelite dialect as well as to the preservation of customs which are revived on various occasions, e.g. celebrations, weddings, funerals. Also an important element of the village are the ceramic plates - in the past the village was a pottery center - that take place to every Archangel house as well as their kitchen which is characterized by special dishes that only exist in Archangel, e.g. koulouria and sweets. GEL Archangelou aims at the multi-faceted development of the students, which extends beyond the knowledge of the school books, therefore it organizes activities related to the culture, the Archangel dialect, the customs and traditions of the place. In general, the school tries and succeeds in having an active participation in the social and cultural events of the area. The participation of the teachers was important because it gave them new knowledge to cope with their pedagogical work.