The Department of Access and Opportunity proudly presents January’s installment of Your Voice, Your Story, a series highlighting diversity and the many unique cultures within our community.
On January 29, millions around the world will celebrate Lunar New Year, a vibrant and significant holiday in many Asian cultures.
For Hsiao-Ting (Charlotte) Chen, a guest educator and long-term substitute for Chinese language classes in Round Rock ISD, Lunar New Year is more than just a holiday—it’s a cherished tradition that bridges her Taiwanese roots with her life in the United States.
“I still remember how my family in Taiwan and relatives in Shanghai celebrated Chinese New Year,” said Chen. “It’s not just wearing red and receiving red envelopes—it’s about big cleanings, intricate decorations, dragon and lion dances, and fireworks. Each activity tells a story and carries generations of meaning.”
Born in Taiwan, Chen grew up surrounded by a blend of cultural influences, from traditional Chinese and Hakka customs to Japanese and Southeast Asian traditions.
“Taiwan is a melting pot of cultures,” Chen said. “With over ten years living in the U.S., I’ve come to appreciate how these experiences shaped my understanding of inclusion and diversity.”
When Chen moved to the U.S., she wanted to share her culture with her new community. What started as small storytelling sessions and craft activities at Brushy Creek Elementary School grew into schoolwide events supported by teachers, PTA members, and organizations like the Taiwan Overseas Community Affairs Council.
“Our celebrations combine fun with learning,” said Chen. “We connect Lunar New Year traditions to science, geography, and art. For example, we teach about the lunar calendar and its ties to astronomy, explore the countries that celebrate it, and end with creative crafts in art class.”
One highlight of the festivities is the lion and dragon dances, which Chen spearheaded as interactive student performances.
“It’s incredible to see fifth graders take pride in creating the lion heads and dragon bodies, then performing in a parade for their peers,” she said. “It’s a beautiful way to involve everyone in the celebration.”
For Chen, these events are about more than celebrating the New Year—they’re about fostering connection and understanding.
“When we include cultures like Vietnamese Lunar New Year or highlight similarities across Asia, we’re showing diversity is our strength.”
Chen invites everyone to join the festivities and learn more about Asian cultures.
“Lunar New Year is one of the three most important holidays for Chinese people and other Asian communities,” she said. “It’s a time to reflect on our shared values of family, fortune, and togetherness.”
Lunar New Year typically falls between mid-January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar. This year, it takes place on January 29.
