Hmong New Year at East High School: "Bridging the Two Worlds"
When East High School teacher May Choua Thao (left)
initiated a Hmong New Year celebration in 2006, she wasn’t
sure it will continue and grow. Literally thousands of students,
staff, faculty and guests came at various times mid-day on Nov.
21 to watch the program, aptly called “Bridging the Two Worlds.”
From the skit that highlighted traditions and new American life
to the musical numbers that showed “the old and the new,” the
performances were meant to educate everyone about Hmong
roots and new beginnings.
“East staff found it ‘nicely put together,’” May Choua Thao
said in regard to feedback she got. “They liked the theme and
the well balanced performances suited to portray the Hmong’s
two worlds.”
The Hmong students “loved it!” Thao said. “It’s their
enthusiasm that fuels my energy to take off and do it each year.
East High is great because it’s diverse and recognizes other
cultures.”
— Heidi M. Pascual
initiated a Hmong New Year celebration in 2006, she wasn’t
sure it will continue and grow. Literally thousands of students,
staff, faculty and guests came at various times mid-day on Nov.
21 to watch the program, aptly called “Bridging the Two Worlds.”
From the skit that highlighted traditions and new American life
to the musical numbers that showed “the old and the new,” the
performances were meant to educate everyone about Hmong
roots and new beginnings.
“East staff found it ‘nicely put together,’” May Choua Thao
said in regard to feedback she got. “They liked the theme and
the well balanced performances suited to portray the Hmong’s
two worlds.”
The Hmong students “loved it!” Thao said. “It’s their
enthusiasm that fuels my energy to take off and do it each year.
East High is great because it’s diverse and recognizes other
cultures.”
— Heidi M. Pascual
| May Choua Thao |