HUSD News Stories

Coronado Elementary’s Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Mandarin students proudly showcased their talents at the 4th Annual Gilbert Sister Cities private “Night at the Garden”, a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and global connections. The event brought together students from various schools, including students from Antrim and Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, and Leshan, China.

Coronado Elementary Principal Brian Griggs shared his gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “I appreciate the invitation from the Town of Gilbert to perform for their Sister Cities celebration. Our students work hard, and it is a much-appreciated showcase of that hard work.”

For Coronado’s Mandarin learners, the evening was more than a performance. It was a chance to demonstrate their growing language skills and cultural understanding in front of a live audience. Griggs noted, “The students had an added element of motivation and excitement seeing firsthand the opportunities that open up for you when you can speak another language.”

Their performance reflected months of dedication to mastering Mandarin while embracing the traditions that accompany it. Remarkably, these students have been in the program for just over three months, yet their progress has been inspiring. Mandarin teacher Josie Zappanti explained, “Students are now speaking more fluently and singing their text with greater ease. Their pronunciation and rhythm continue to improve, helping them feel the patterns of the language and develop stronger skills.”

Coronado’s participation highlights the power of HUSD’s Dual Language Immersion program to prepare students for limitless opportunities, giving them the confidence to succeed in a global future.