Students from the Cunningham and Collicot Elementary Schools gathered in the gymnasium recently to learn the ancient art of calligraphy, how to fold red “money” envelopes and make their own Chinese lanterns.

The festivities were part of the Lunar New Year Festival, a collaborative project put on with the support of the Collicot and Cunningham PTOs.

The teachers spearheaded a committee to craft an Asian cultural experience for all of the children to attend. The festival, held in mid-February, featured projects that were linked to books about Lunar New Year that the students read in their classrooms. There was also a shadow puppet play of the Monkey King by the English Language Education students and the event culminated with a a traditional lion dance.

Dozens of parents many volunteered their time, cultural artifacts and positive spirit to the festival, which was organized by Alysa Buchanan, our English Language Education Program Coordinator.

Students gather around teacher Alysa Buchanan and the colorful dragon puppet as part of the Lunar Festival at Cunningham and Collicot schools