11 East Central Ohio Educational Service Center (ECOESC) Chinese Language Learning students from Licking Heights Local School District and Dover, Ohio traveled with their Chinese teachers, ECOESC program coordinator Michele Carlisle and the Director of Total Immersion Experience, Andrew Stanoch to Flushing, NY, Sept. 25-28.
The students braved a 4:15 AM Airport arrival time, a Nor’easter, and averaged 20,000 steps per day on their journey to experience the language they are studying in the real world. Many of them had never flown before, nor taken the subway, so just the city itself brought new learning and wonder.
Flushing, Queens is one of the largest and most vibrant modern-day Chinese communities in the US. Unlike historical large-city Chinatowns, Flushing is made up almost entirely of first- and second-generation Chinese immigrants who’ve relocated to this city of more than 100,000 people.
When entering Flushing, visitors are transported to a modern city in China, with stores and restaurants operating in Chinese and food and culture presented in the same manner and style as in Mainland China. From the New World Mall Food Market to the massive fruit and vegetable markets, students can experience the language and culture of China right on these New York streets.
This trip provided students with the opportunity to use, practice and grow the language they are learning, which is a critically important piece of promoting proficiency.
“Watching students stretch and grow in their language skills is fascinating, and something I am quite proud to be able to support,” said Carlisle.
Students also learned about ancient art and dynasties and how they shaped the world today, heard the stories of Chinese immigrants who came to America and practiced their language skills in an immersive setting.
“The entire experience was a fantastic learning opportunity for our students,” said Carlisle.
Students also visited Chinatown in Manhattan, and while there, were able to experience a Walking tour hosted by the Museum of Chinese America, a tour with the Docent and participate in learning activities at the China Institute.
Beyond language immersion, the itinerary introduced students to traditional Chinese cuisine and regional culture.
“There is nothing quite like a traditional Sichuan dinner followed by Chinese karaoke,” said Carlisle. “Some of the best dumpling houses in the city are found right in Flushing.”
The last stop on the trip may have left the deepest impression on the students. The Nan Shan Center in Flushing, NY, is a large, active senior center where daily activities and gatherings are available for senior citizens in the community.
The students were able to sit and talk with elders, most of whom have been in America less than 40 years, and few of whom speak English. Many of the seniors shared vivid stories about leaving China, coming to America, and living in China at a time that looked much different from today.
This year, students received a Tai Chi lesson from the instructor before the seniors spoke to them in small groups. During a similar visit in 2023, students met a man who helped support the Flying Tigers during WWII.
“It’s just an incredibly rich language and culture experience for our students,” said Carlisle. “Language and culture broadens our world. I am grateful for the chance to let these students experience growth as well!”
ECOESC has offered Chinese language classes since 2008, and through the program, offered student learning and travel to China as well as to Flushing, NY since the inception of the program.
School districts enrolled in ECOESC Chinese language learning classes are offered the opportunity to engage with other Chinese Language learners throughout the United States and through other shared opportunities.
Districts interested in learning more about the ECOESC world language instruction can email michele.carlisle@ecoesc.org.
