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Wimbish World Language Academy celebrates Lunar New Year 
Posted in on January 31, 2025

Students wear red to mark Lunar New Year

New year, new adventures! There’s no better place to celebrate the Lunar New Year than at Wimbish World Language Academy 

This week, the school’s Mandarin program slithered into the year of the snake with a parade through the school’s halls, honoring the snake’s symbolism of growth, renewal and adaptability. 

Each student got crafty at home and in class, designing their own colorful creatures to showcase in the parade. But this wasn’t just about fun – it was a hands-on way to learn about the culture and traditions behind the Lunar New Year. 

“Each year, I notice that more and more students dress up and make their own dragon heads,” said Wimbish community liaison Elizabeth Velasco. “Our goal is to not only teach the language but also teach the kids the culture.” 

Wimbish principal Dr. Chelsea Kostyniak couldn’t agree more. 

“It’s just so fun,” Kostyniak said. “With this kind of exposure, these kids are going to know that this world is a big world. Not only will they know that people celebrate differently, but they will appreciate it, too.” 

The school’s PTA also helped make the celebration extra special by providing festive decorations and handing out fortune cookies. Arlington ISD board members, superintendent Dr. Matt Smith and the world languages department were all there to join in on the fun, showing their support for cultural learning and diversity. 

“It’s so special,” Velasco said. “We love to see the integration between the community, the teachers, the students and our PTA.” Wimbish lunar new year

But wait, there’s more! The festivities didn’t stop when the school day ended. That evening, traditions continued as families and friends gathered for a dragon dance. 

At Wimbish, learning goes beyond books and classrooms as celebrations like these bring language and culture to life in the most magical way. Xīn nián hǎo! Happy Lunar New Year! 

Wimbish is a dual language school, where students choose to learn in either Spanish and English or French and English. Learn more about Wimbish World Language Academy.