Integrating Culture: Chinese New Year

2012 is the year of the Dragon. It is going to be a legendary year! This starts the calendar year of the Spring Festival in China. January 23rd, 2012.
Here are a few books that you can look for to read throughout this month. Hopefully, your local library has a few books to enjoy.






Now that you have a few ideas, get some sheets, paper and old shirts to make your own moving dragon with your family.

Integrating History: Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. King wrote a pledge and would have the marchers sign it during Civil Rights march, I recreated a shorter version of what they would say. Dr. King was a nonviolent man and had each marcher read and sign a pledge.

I had to take anything out that mentioned God or Jesus, because it was done in a public school. I will post both for you.

(edited version)
Pledge of Nonviolence
A portion of the pledge which was required to be signed before a person was
allowed to march for Civil Rights back in the 1960’s:

1. Remember the nonviolent movement seeks justice and reconciliation – not victory.
2. Walk and talk in the manner of love.
3. Observe with friend and foes the ordinary rules of courtesy.
4. Perform regular service for others and the world.
5. Refrain from violence of fist, tongue and heart.
6. Strive to be in good spiritual and bodily health.

The Civil Rights Marchers would march in protest and while they were treated bad, hit, yelled at, arrested and jailed, they were committed to non-violence.

Be a student of Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream-work together for all people. Remember because of him and his beliefs, we can all be in school together.

I, _________________ (name), sign on January 11, 2012, will do my best to work to be a better person and to uphold the values of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s. dream.


Dr. King's full version:
The pledge of nonviolence written by Martin Luther King Jr., and signed by his marchers, 1963
1.As you prepare to march meditate on the life and teachings of Jesus


2.Remember the nonviolent movement seeks justice and reconciliation - not victory.


3.Walk and talk in the manner of love; for God is love.


4.Pray daily to be used by God that all men and women might be free.


5.Sacrifice personal wishes that all might be free.


6.Observe with friend and foes the ordinary rules of courtesy.


7.Perform regular service for others and the world.


8.Refrain from violence of fist, tongue and heart.


9.Strive to be in good spiritual and bodily health.


10.Follow the directions of the movement leaders and of the captains on demonstrations.


Print Name ______________________________
Signature _______________________________

Integrating Holidays: Happy Birthday Calendar!!

My 3-year old asked me whose birthday party it was when we were celebrating "Noon" Year's Eve at the local library. There is really not an easy way to explain it, so I just told her it is the calendar's birthday. That seemed to work.

Last year, I posted some ways different cultures bring in the New Year. You can view that again here: New Year Celebrations.

This month, there are a few celebrations you can start the new year off with.
Jan 16 - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - National Day of Service
Jan 18 - Winnie the Pooh Day
Jan 23 - Utah Legislature Convenes

Jan 23 - Chinese New Year - Year of the Dragon-Dragons are legendary in Chinese mythology symbolizing power, strength, and good luck.


Looks like it will be a strong year!!