Lunar New Years

February 10, 2026January 4, 2026 US Adult Literacy1 Comment

Tuesday, February 17th 2026 – Year of the Horse – the Fire Horse

Key vocabulary:

Marks (verb) – indicates or shows a particular event, change, or point in time.
Fresh start (noun) – a new beginning or opportunity to start over without the past affecting it.
Emphasizing (verb) – giving special importance or attention to something.
Prosperity (noun) – the state of being successful, especially financially or economically.
Symbolizes (verb) – represents or stands for something, especially through a symbol.
To ward off (verb phrase) – to prevent or protect against something harmful or unwanted.
Incorporates(verb) – includes or combines something as part of a whole.
Linked to(verb phrase) – connected or related to something.

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is a major holiday celebrated in many East and Southeast Asian cultures. It marks a fresh start, emphasizing themes of family, prosperity, and good fortune. Traditions include: a dinner on New Year’s Eve, exchanging red envelopes 🧧 with money to symbolize luck, cleaning and decorating homes with red banners and lanterns, 🏮 and vibrant community festivities like fireworks 🧨 and lion 🦁 dances to ward off evil spirits .

The holiday also incorporates the Chinese zodiac, with each year linked to one of twelve animals, such as the Rabbit, Dragon, or Tiger.

This year, Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, February 17th. Celebrations often span up to 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival, which this year falls on Tuesday, March 3rd

Below are the twelve Chinese zodiac animals, including their associated years (1924–2043) and personality traits. What zodiac animal are you?

Rat: 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020.
Traits: Intelligent, resourceful, adaptable, charming, quick-witted, ambitious.

Ox: 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021.
Traits: Reliable, hardworking, patient, strong, disciplined, determined.

Tiger: 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022.
Traits: Brave, competitive, confident, unpredictable, energetic, ambitious.

Rabbit: 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Traits: Gentle, compassionate, elegant, cautious, responsible, friendly.

Dragon: 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024.
Traits: Charismatic, energetic, ambitious, confident, adventurous, innovative.

Snake: 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Traits: Wise, intuitive, enigmatic, elegant, private, determined.

Horse: 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026.
Traits: Energetic, free-spirited, sociable, adventurous, optimistic, independent.

Sheep: 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027.
Traits: Creative, kind, empathetic, gentle, sensitive, nurturing.

Monkey: 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028.
Traits: Witty, clever, curious, mischievous, energetic, innovative.

Rooster: 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029.
Traits: Observant, hardworking, practical, outspoken, confident, punctual.

Dog: 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030.
Traits: Loyal, honest, trustworthy, protective, selfless, reliable.

Pig: 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031.
Traits: Generous, good-natured, diligent, sincere, kind, optimistic.

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President’s Day: Discovering Lincoln and Washington Through Biography

February 9, 2026September 9, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

President’s Day is a national holiday in the United States, celebrated on the third Monday of February. It honors two of the most respected leaders in American history: George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Both were born in February and are remembered for their strong leadership and lasting impact on the country.

George Washington was the first president of the United States. He led the American army to victory in the Revolutionary War and helped create the new government. Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president. He led the country during the Civil War and worked to end slavery. His famous speech, the Gettysburg Address, is still studied today.

Reading biographies is a great way to learn about these presidents. For English learners, books like Who Was George Washington? (ISBN-139780448448923) and Who Was Abraham Lincoln? (ISBN-139780606040068) are excellent choices. These books use simple language and include helpful illustrations and timelines. They show how each man grew up, faced challenges, and became a leader.

Biographies help us understand history and the values of honesty, courage, and service. They also improve reading skills and vocabulary. On President’s Day, take time to explore the lives of Washington and Lincoln. Their stories can inspire us to be better citizens and lifelong learners.

📚 Tip: Try reading with a friend or writing a short summary after each chapter. It’s a fun way to practice English and learn about American history!

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School is closed on Monday, January 26th

January 26, 2026January 26, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Dear daytime students,

Due to the winter storm, Monday’s English classes (Monday, January 26th) are canceled.

Please stay safe and warm, and we’ll see everyone on Tuesday, January 27th.

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School is closed on Sunday, January 25th

January 24, 2026January 24, 2026 US Adult Literacy1 Comment

Dear weekend students,

Due to the expected winter storm, tomorrow’s English classes (Sunday, January 25th) are canceled.

Please stay safe and warm, and we’ll see everyone next Saturday, January 31st.

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Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day: A Message of Hope and Equality

January 19, 2026September 3, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Every January, people in the United States honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was a leader in the Civil Rights Movement, a time when many Americans fought for equal rights for all people—no matter their skin color.

Vocabulary:

Equality – the state of being equal, especially in rights and opportunities
Justice – fairness in the way people are treated
Peaceful protest – showing disagreement without violence
Civil rights – the rights of citizens to freedom and equality

Dr. King believed in peaceful protest. He gave powerful speeches, including the famous “I Have a Dream” speech, where he spoke about a future where children of all races could live and learn together in harmony. His words inspired millions and continue to give hope today.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a holiday. It’s a day to remember the importance of justice, kindness, and respect. Many people celebrate by volunteering in their communities, helping others, and learning more about history.

📝 Try This:
Write a short paragraph about a dream you have for a better world. Use words like “peace,” “respect,” and “hope.”