On January 24, 2020, Jack Ni, a 9th grade student, held a Chinese New Year party in the lobby activity period. Jack had posters all through the hall of different Chinese zodiacs/animal symbols. Once you found your symbol you would walk over to Jack in the middle of the room. He would give you a fortune cookie if you got your zodiac symbol correct. In an interview with the party host, Jack told us a little bit about why he choose to have this party and the traditions that his own family does to celebrate the Chinese holiday.

Q: How did you come up with the idea to host this party?

A: My teacher had the idea and I helped her with the planning. 

Q: What do you do to celebrate Chinese New Year in your home?

 A: We get money as gifts for the New Year, and eat food.

Q: Why did you want to have this party? 

A: I thought that it would be something different for the school, and to have the students learn more about Chinese culture. 

Q: What is your Chinese Zodiac Sign? 

A: My zodiac sign is a rooster.

Q: What does your family eat for dinner? 

A: I eat dumplings and rice. 

Q: Do you stay at home or do you go somewhere?

A: I stay at home with my mom, dad, and sister. Normally my family does not come to my house because they live far away. 

The party was a huge success, and we hope to make this a new tradition for Redbank Valley!