Who We Are
DragonSprouts is a parent-led non-profit that supports the Mandarin Immersion program in LAUSD Westside schools.
Our Story
Launched by Principal Susan Wang with the full commitment of LAUSD, the Mandarin Immersion program started in the Fall of 2010 with two kindergarten classes at Broadway Elementary and a group of highly dedicated parents.
DragonSprouts was founded shortly after 2012.
Growing out of a need
To ensure the program was adequately supported, DragonSprouts originally funded the most basic of necessities such as teacher visas, classroom supplies, laptops, and projectors. Through our efforts, the MI program was firmly established at Broadway and able to expand.
Today the Mandarin Immersion program has grown to over 700 students across four LAUSD Westside campuses. And DragonSprouts continues to play a critical role in raising funds from parents and the broader community to support the MI program on an ongoing basis.
Our Purpose
DragonSprouts’ primary purpose is to maintain and grow the Mandarin Immersion program through targeted funding and advocacy.
Our goal is to serve as an extension of the classroom. Building community. Paving a path. And creating enriching cultural experiences that sprout bilingual, biliterate and multicultural global citizens.
While activities and programs that are part of the overall school curriculum are now funded through the district, PTA or on-campus clubs, DragonSprouts remains the primary funding source for all Mandarin-specific programs and materials.
The organization currently covers:
Classroom resources and materials unique to Mandarin instruction such as high-quality Chinese language books and subscriptions to online learning programs and language tools
Assistance with professional development for teachers and sourcing curriculum that increase students’ opportunity to use Mandarin
Cultural enrichments such as Lunar New Year celebration, on-campus performances, calligraphy, Chinese chess, story time, and field trips
DragonSprouts brings so much more…
As the only organization that umbrellas all LAUSD westside schools, DragonSprouts has played a pivotal role in expanding the program and creating a community designed to support our teachers, empower parents, and enhance the learning experience for our students.
With our student mentorship and volunteering programs, professional career development and scholarship opportunities, DragonSprouts brings students and families across all campuses together in order to build a strong parent community, foster friendships and deepen students’ understanding and appreciation for the Chinese culture.
The result is a robust Mandarin Immersion program that covers all primary and secondary grade levels at LAUSD westside schools. We help to create a K-12 pipeline that provides continuity, improves communication and paves a path for parents and students as they continue their Mandarin education journey.
Mandarin Immersion in Action
Elementary students in Broadway's dual-language, Mandarin & English Program receive a rigorous education in language arts, social studies, mathematics, and sciences in adherence with the Common Core State Standards.
