(WEAU) – Some Eau Claire elementary students got to learn about Hmong culture Thursday.
Longfellow Elementary School in Eau Claire held a Hmong New Year Celebration. Teachers explained the importance of the Hmong New Year in the Hmong culture, while showing photos of traditional new year celebrations.
Teacher Joel Raney says having an event like Thursday's helps Hmong students have more success in all areas at school. “It's a good way to recognize the students in our schools. When we bring their culture into the school, they tend to do better across all the other subject areas. It helps to build confidence and pride in their ethnic identity."
A former Longfellow student Panhia Xiong, who is now a professional singer in the Twin Cities, also performed.
