Washington Chinese School Celebrates 40th Anniversary, Emphasizing Language and Culture, Promoting Traditional Chinese

(Central News Agency reporter Hou Zhiying, Washington, June 14) Washington Chinese School, one of the largest Chinese language schools in the Greater Washington, D.C. area, held a 40th-anniversary dinner tonight. School Chairman Li Zhonghui, in an interview with CNA, stated that the school has always emphasized the equal importance of language and culture and remains committed to promoting Traditional Chinese characters. Students shared that while learning Chinese can be challenging—such as recognizing characters or writing sentences—the cultural classes are enjoyable.

Founded in 1986 and registered in Maryland, Washington Chinese School is a nonprofit private institution. Tonight’s event was a 40th-anniversary gratitude dinner, attended by Hsu Chia-ching, Chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Council. The evening featured cultural performances by students, including calligraphy demonstrations and Chinese song performances.

Li Zhonghui explained in an interview that the school’s English name, 'Washington School of Chinese Language and Culture,' accurately reflects its founding mission: 'Our school has always emphasized the equal importance of language and culture.'

She noted that the school was established by five immigrant families from Taiwan who wanted to create a suitable Chinese language school for their children overseas. They believed that cultural heritage was just as important as language.

Li stated that the school currently offers classes for students aged 3 to 18. Each weekend, students attend 2.5 hours of instruction, including one hour of Chinese language, 30 minutes of cultural introduction, and one hour of dynamic cultural activities.

She emphasized that all textbooks and teaching materials are sourced from Taiwan, and the teaching staff are primarily from Taiwan. For 40 years, the school has consistently promoted Traditional Chinese characters.

Shen Ruien, a student who performed in the singing segment tonight, shared in an interview that she has been attending Washington Chinese School for six years. She said the biggest benefit of learning Chinese is being able to communicate in Chinese with her grandmother, maternal grandmother, and maternal grandfather in Taiwan.

Thirteen-year-old Shen said learning Chinese can sometimes be difficult, including trouble recognizing characters or forming sentences, and she often needs to ask her parents or sister for help with homework. However, she also finds joy in the classes, especially the cultural lessons, which allow her to learn about Taiwanese culture and games. She plans to continue studying at Washington Chinese School until she turns 18. (Editor: Tang Shengyang) 1150615