The HMong American Immersion School (HAIS), Wisconsin’s newest culturally responsive public school, will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house. Open to the public, this event will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 22, at Johnston Elementary School, located at 2725 E. Forest St. in Appleton (map). The event will include a brief program, school tours and opportunities to meet the educators, families and leaders behind this initiative.
Serving as the Appleton Area School District’s 15th free, public charter school, HAIS will serve 4K through 3rd-grade students, with plans to expand through 5th grade. HAIS was made possible through the 2022 capital referendum.
HAIS means to speak in HMong, and the program is designed to empower students to use their voices for positive change. Through HAIS’ dual-language program, students will become fluent in both Hmong and English while receiving rigorous academic instruction rooted in cultural identity, equity and community engagement.
“HAIS is more than just a school; it’s a space where students can see themselves reflected in the curriculum, language and leadership,” said Dr. Pa Lee Moua, president of the HAIS board of directors. “We are proud to create a learning environment that honors HMong heritage while equipping students with the tools to thrive in the Fox Cities.”
HAIS supports underserved students through a curriculum that integrates HMong history, language and values alongside high expectations and social-emotional learning.
For more information on HAIS, visit hais.aasd.k12.wi.us.
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About HMong American Immersion School:
The HMong American Immersion School (HAIS) is a culturally responsive public school that blends HMong language and cultural education with rigorous academics. Its mission is to support student success by fostering identity, language development, advocacy and belonging in every classroom.