Hundreds of Minnetonka Chinese Immersion students and their families came together at Minnetonka High School recently to celebrate Chinese New Year. Visitors experienced Chinese culture through a variety of activities in the MHS Commons, including mask making, calligraphy, face-painting and more.  

Lillan Dang, Chinese Immersion teacher from Minnetonka Middle School West, led the planning and execution of the event along with other Chinese Immersion teachers, students, and staff from across the district. 

In the auditorium, students from Kindergarten through 12th grade showcased their skills in everything from songs and poetry to traditional dance and Shaolin kung fu. Students paid special homage to the holiday by singing celebratory songs such as “Gong Xi Gong Xi” and “Best Wishes from the Chinese Zodiac.” Another special feature were the performances broadcasted from Minnetonka’s sister schools in China.

MHS students Anna Nodsle ‘23 and Aaron Duong ‘24 played a big part in both planning and volunteering at the event. 

"I think the central goal of hosting the event was to share Chinese culture and bring back an incredible event for the community—and for the Chinese Immersion kids especially,” shared Nodsle. She said it had been several years since the last event was put on. “So for me personally, the goal was to let the next generation of younger kids experience this incredible celebration that I had so much fun participating in when I was little.” 

Duong added, “It just brought a huge sense of nostalgia, honestly, and what was really cool about this event was that it was districtwide. It brought together all the schools and all age groups.” A highlight for Duong personally was being able to celebrate his culture with those around him. “We got to celebrate our traditions and our culture with others who might not celebrate it typically. But they still welcomed it, we welcomed them, and we all had fun together.”

Declan Halloran ‘23 helped to decorate the Commons and also emceed many of the performances. “Personally, I really enjoyed seeing all of my Chinese teachers together at such a large-scale event. It was such a nice way to celebrate the new year together,” he said. 

"It brought so many people together,” Halloran said. “To prepare for the event, so many different clubs and organizations worked together to decorate and plan. We had such a good time working with other students and teachers.”

Nodsle mentioned the special impact the event had on students who were seniors, helping to cap their Chinese Immersion experiences before graduation. “So many people were inspired by this event, and I think it really did bring people together,” she said. 

The students also extended a special thanks to the administrators, teachers, club leaders and volunteers involved in making the event a huge success. 

From everyone at Minnetonka Schools, have a happy Year of the Rabbit!