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Another fantastic school year has come to a close! On May 25, 2024, Fo Guang Shan Buddha's Light Hsi Lai School hosted its annual end-of-the-school-year ceremony, drawing nearly 400 attendees.
Venerable Hui Dong, the principal of Hsi Lai School, delivered an inspiring speech. He emphasized that Fo Guang Shan aims to nurture talents through education. Beyond academic knowledge, the school focuses on instilling compassion, love, respect, and tolerance in students, helping them become “Three Acts of Goodness” students and valuable members of society.
Min-yong Chen, Director of the Culture Center of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles, also addressed the audience. On behalf of the Chairman of the Overseas Community Affairs Council, Chia-ching Hsu, he expressed gratitude for Hsi Lai Temple's 35 years of dedicated promotion of Chinese education overseas. He highlighted the temple's role in teaching children about Chinese culture and Buddhism, attributing today's successes to the supportive environment provided by Hsi Lai Temple, along with the efforts of parents, teachers, and students. He encouraged students to excel in their studies and continue promoting culture, noting the heartwarming trend of graduates returning to serve the school.
The event showcased impressive performances by students from the after-school and Saturday Chinese school programs. They delighted the audience with songs, dances, and plays, including traditional Chinese Dunhuang dance, where dancers wore stunning blue and orange robes, performing elegant moves and intricate hand gestures. Kung Fu students wowed the crowd with their athletic prowess, executing flips and tricks with fans and bamboo poles.
Students and their parents were honored for their academic achievements, receiving certificates and trophies for their hard work over the past year. Teachers, staff members, and volunteers were recognized for their dedication, each receiving certificates of appreciation. The awards were presented separately to students, teachers, and volunteers by Venerable Hui Dong, Min-yong Chen, Christine Che (President of the Southern California Council of Chinese Schools), Venerable Yi Shan (Superintendent of Hsi Lai Temple), and Steven Chow (Vice President of the Buddha's Light International Association, Los Angeles Chapter).
While it was bittersweet to see such a wonderful day end, students are grateful for the chance to celebrate this year's accomplishments. Fo Guang Shan Buddha's Light Hsi Lai School looks forward to seeing you again at next year's end-of-the-year ceremony!
(Photos by Chihcheng Chang)
