Irvine Chinese School held four year-end ceremonies on May 17–18, including a high school graduation, drawing large crowds of families. The events honored long-time teachers, recognized perfect attendance, and featured graduates who studied Chinese for over ten years sharing their reflections.
Highlights included folk dance and yo-yo performances, along with a touching video of students’ learning moments. Many parents were moved to tears, making for a heartfelt and memorable celebration.
The ceremony was held at the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center’s MAR AMPHITHEATER.
Principal Jennifer Su thanked parents for their continued trust and support, praised the teachers’ hard work, and commended the students’ perseverance. “Language learning is a long journey. It takes both the students’ determination and the support of their families,” she said.
Jinnifer Su noted that students had shown excellence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, along with creativity and confidence in cultural activities.
This year’s honored guests included founding principal Mitzi Fu, second principal Terry Lee, and SCCCC CEO Yulan Chung.
Chung applauded the students’ commitment to learning Chinese despite demanding high school workloads, calling it “a rare and admirable achievement.”
She also highlighted that Irvine Chinese School is the largest single-campus Chinese school in the U.S., and will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year.
The school presented awards to long-serving teachers (five to twenty years), perfect attendance recipients, and high school students recognized for perseverance. As students and teachers took the stage to receive their honors, applause filled the venue.
Graduating senior Akaylah Cote, who studied Chinese for 12 years, expressed gratitude to her teachers and said Chinese helped her connect with family and culture.
“It’s not about how well you speak, but how long you’re willing to learn,” she quoted one teacher. She pledged to continue learning Chinese in college and beyond.
Another graduate, Aoi Kusano, shared her journey with humor, recalling early wake-ups, long drives, and Saturday homework struggles. “Thanks to my mom and teachers, I didn’t quit. Now I can even argue with my mom in Chinese!” Her speech drew laughter and applause.
Aoi Kusano encouraged younger students to keep going, reminding them that mastering Chinese builds lifelong skills and deepens cultural understanding.
The ceremony concluded with performances by the folk dance and yo-yo teams, captivating the audience and bringing some to tears.
The event ended on a high note with a group photo of students, parents, and faculty—closing the school year with joy and pride.
