Celebrating Cultural Richness: Aspen Academy's Lunar New Year Traditions
  • The Aspen Difference
Jess Cho and Jessie Skipwith

Aspen Academy thrives on the spirit of partnership and collaboration, where families, students, and faculty come together to create unforgettable experiences. One shining example of this collaborative effort is the remarkable Lunar New Year programming brought to our school by a dedicated parent, Mrs. Jennifer McPhie.

Aspen Academy thrives on the spirit of partnership and collaboration, where families, students, and faculty come together to create unforgettable experiences. One shining example of this collaborative effort is the remarkable Lunar New Year programming brought to our school by a dedicated parent, Mrs. Jennifer McPhie. Over the past several years, Mrs. McPhie has infused our community with the vibrant traditions of Lunar New Year, transforming it into an eagerly anticipated annual celebration.

This Saturday, February 10th, marks the beginning of the lunar calendar this year and is celebrated by various Asian communities around the world. It's a time of joyful gatherings, delicious feasts, and cultural rituals aimed at welcoming the new year with prosperity and good fortune.

Thanks to Mrs. McPhie's passion and dedication, Lunar New Year programming has become deeply ingrained in the fabric of Aspen Academy. This year, Mrs. McPhie extended the festivities to both 2nd and 5th grades, where students engaged in traditional crafts and continued to learn about the significance of celebrating diverse cultural traditions. Through their participation, students not only gained a deeper understanding of Lunar New Year but also cultivated a greater appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures within our community.

This collaborative spirit of coming together to create beautiful experiences at Aspen Academy continues to expand, as demonstrated by the efforts of Mrs. Jessica Cho, our Student Support Manager, and her husband. Together, they too brought the magic of Lunar New Year to the 6th-grade students, enriching their educational experience with hands-on activities, traditional Korean dress, and valuable insights into Korean culture. Students walked away with a new perspective and an understanding of a variety of cultural traditions that they could compare and contrast with their previous experiences in 5th and 2nd grades.

The impact of these partnerships goes far beyond the classroom walls. Students not only enjoyed creating arts and crafts but also embraced the spirit of inclusivity by honoring families who observe Lunar New Year traditions and engaging in dynamic conversations with their peers. Through these experiences, they fostered a deeper sense of empathy and appreciation for the diverse backgrounds and traditions that enrich our human family. We would love for you to ask any 2nd, 5th or 6th grader about what they learned and the fun experiences they had during these presentations!

Aspen Academy's Lunar New Year celebrations exemplify the power of collaboration and the beauty of cultural exchange. By coming together as a community, we not only celebrate our differences but also unite in our shared humanity. As we continue to nurture these partnerships, we are excited for future years of cultural enrichment and learning opportunities at Aspen Academy with our students, families and faculty.

Lunar New Year Presentation 6th Grade
Lunar New Year Lanterns
Lunar New Year 2nd Grade
  • Diversity
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Lunar New Year