D-E rang in the Lunar New Year with dynamic assembly performances and a jubilant celebration in the Wharton Lessin Dining Hall, graciously facilitated by our Asian American, Chinese, and Korean Parent Affinity Groups. Festivities began in the Lower School (LS) with recognition of East Asian and Pacific Islander heritage, students sharing Lunar New Year family traditions, and performances, including the LS Chorus singing alongside Upper School (US) students from Ms. Zhao’s Mandarin class, a Chinese folk song dance, a “Colorful Clouds” dance, a Chinese Kung Fu demo, and a KPop bop to “Golden” and “APT.”
During the Middle School (MS) and US assemblies, a dragon dance welcomed everyone gathered in Schenck. Members of the Korean Culture Club (KCC), East Asian Affinity (EAA), and Chinese Culture Club (CCC) revealed facts about Lunar New Year and surprised several guests with cash-filled red envelopes under their seats. On stage, students across divisions continued the celebration—LS students sang about “friendship, love, and gratitude”; Austin Chu ’32 played the Korean zither; US students performed a “flower dance”; Gavin Park ’28 led pupils through an exciting Korean taekwondo showcase; CCC members performed a “palm dance”; and Mandarin students closed the assembly with a Chinese ribbon dance.
Later in the day, students took part in a chopsticks competition, calligraphy, and games, while our generous Parent Affinity Groups served Chinese and Korean snacks, homemade dumplings, and more. CCC member Alene Huang ’27 described the activities as “a fun way to introduce students to our clubs, by sharing our traditions.” Mr. Lee, Assistant Director of DEIB (US), added that this was “a moment of joy for everyone.” We wish our D-E families happiness, health, and good luck in the year of the Fire Horse!
