Outdoor fun in Chinese

Before the weather became too cold, students at Kalona Elementary put their chinese direction skills to the test with a game of Blindfolded freeze tag.  Everyone was paired up and tasked with guiding a student around who was blindfolded while at the same time avoiding another group who would try to tag them.

  Mrs. Wood's 5th Grade 

Ms. Lehman's 5th grade

Here is a great report about online language learning.

Here is a link to a recent NPR episode about the importance of early language learning.  It also talks about other early language programs in Iowa.  Find it here at Iowa Public Radio "Foreign Language Learning in the Elementary"

A Great Opportunity for International Exchange!!

Calligraphy Class

Check out these photos from our recent calligraphy classes at Wellman Elementary and Washington Township with our 4th and 5th grade students!

The students are using special calligraphy brushes to write Chinese characters. 

They worked hard, and were very proud of their results!

Jean Lin Hussey

Don't forget us during conferences

One of the things I love most about conference time is that is gives me an opportunity to talk to both parents and students about foreign language in the schools.  Don't pass up the opportunity to chat with us about what your children are learning.  We love the chance to talk about them and we also love the chance to get your ideas about our programs in the district.

Chinese Mid Autumn Festival

Thanks to all those who came out for our Chinese Mid Autumn festival last Tuesday.  We had around 55 people attend and fun was had by all.  I want to thank the University of Iowa Confucius Institute for giving us a great selection of activities and speakers.  The students truly learned a lot and had a wonderful time.

Chinese Moon Festival at Kalona Elementary

It's time again for our Chinese Moon festival.  We are fortunate that this year visitors from the University of Iowa Confucius Institute will be coming to Kalona Elementary to show ALL Mid Prairie elementary students how to celebrate this wonderful time.  Please Join us Tuesday evening at Kalona Elementary!!!