Chinese Language Speech Competition and talent show to foster language learning, cultural exchange

The Chinese Language Teachers Association of New Mexico, in partnership with the New Mexico Chinese School of Arts and Language, Prospect Chinese Academy, the New Mexico Asian Family Center and Menaul School, are proud to announce the second annual New Mexico Chinese Language Speech Competition and Talent Show. This event will be held at Menaul School, 301 Menaul Blvd. NE, in Albuquerque on Saturday, April 20, at 10 a.m.

Extending beyond high school-level participants for the first time, the competition now invites students from elementary to university level to showcase their language skills and cultural talents. The competition provides a platform for both heritage speakers and additional language-learners of Chinese to express their cultural connections and language proficiency through speech and performance. This year’s theme, "The most interesting thing about learning Chinese," encourages participants to share personal and insightful narratives about their language learning journey.

"We are thrilled to bring this event to a wider audience, promoting Chinese language learning from a young age," said Ariana Koers, a Chinese language teacher at Cleveland High School and one of the event coordinators. "This competition not only enhances linguistic skills but also strengthens cultural ties within the community."

Event highlights include:

• Speech competitions and talent shows across various age groups;
• Opportunities for the public to learn about Chinese language programs through informational booths set up by participating schools; and
• Awards for top performers, including gift cards donated by local businesses and Chinese language associations.

Special Features:

This event marks the first expansion to include students as young as elementary age, emphasizing early language acquisition.

Judges from a wide range of educational institutions underline the comprehensive support for Chinese education in New Mexico.

The event is open to the public, with free entry for all to enjoy the competitions and explore opportunities for language learning through local Chinese schools' programs available year-round and during weekends.

"Learning a language is more important than ever. When you study a language, you're learning new ways to think, new ways to process information, and your brain reacts to that physically in all kinds of positive ways. Then there are the connections to other cultures, and to our own,” said Assistant Head of Menaul School Chris Ferrara. “My daughters were born in China, and one of the joys of American culture is they can embrace those aspects of their heritage while being fully American."

Chinese Language Teachers Association of NM:

CLTA-NM works to promote Chinese language education and cultural understanding across New Mexico, supporting a wide range of educational initiatives and cultural exchanges, as well as organizing cooperation between the various Chinese language programs offered across New Mexico at public, private, charter and weekend programs. This organization is led by local community members and Chinese language educators.