About Us · 關於我們

50 Years of
Joyful Learning

五十年的快樂學習

What started as a small community effort in 1975 has grown into one of Calgary's most trusted Chinese language schools. Our secret? We believe learning should feel like discovery, not homework.

Our Story

我們的故事

In 1975, a group of families in Calgary shared a simple wish: they wanted their children to learn Mandarin and stay connected to their Chinese heritage. So they started teaching — in living rooms, community centers, wherever they could gather.

That grassroots effort became Calgary Mandarin School.

Five decades later, we're still here, still community-driven, still focused on the same mission: helping families pass down the gift of language and culture to the next generation.

We've grown, of course. Today we offer programs from preschool through adult, including Alberta-accredited high school credits. But the heart of our school remains the same — dedicated teachers, supportive families, and children discovering the joy of a new language every Saturday morning.

Through the Years 歷年發展

1975

Founded by a small group of families 由幾個家庭創立

1980s

Moved to permanent Saturday location 固定週六上課地點

1990s

Expanded to multiple grade levels 擴展至多個年級

2000s

Alberta Education accreditation 獲得省政府認證

Today

50+ years strong, serving all ages 超過50年,服務各年齡層

What We Believe

我們的信念

Language is more than words. It's a bridge to heritage, a tool for connection, and a gift that grows more valuable with time.

Joy First

快樂優先

When learning feels like play, children (and adults) show up eager. We design every class to spark curiosity, not dread.

Heritage Matters

文化傳承

We teach traditional Chinese characters and celebrate Chinese traditions — connecting students to thousands of years of culture and wisdom.

Community-Powered

社區力量

We're run by families, for families. Our teachers, volunteers, and board all share a personal connection to our mission.

Every Level Welcome

歡迎各程度

Whether you grew up speaking Mandarin or have never heard a word, there's a place for you here. We meet learners where they are.

A Message from Our Principal

校長的話

"Every Saturday, I watch children walk into our school — some excited, some sleepy, some nervous. And every Saturday, I watch those same children leave a little more confident, a little more connected to their roots, and (most importantly) smiling. That's what makes this work meaningful. We're not just teaching a language; we're giving families a way to stay connected across generations."

Ruth Wu, Principal

Ruth Wu 吳淑雲

Principal 校長

「每個星期六,我看著孩子們走進學校,離開時更有自信、更了解自己的根。這就是我們工作的意義。」

Our Teachers & Volunteers

我們的老師與義工

Our teachers aren't just instructors — they're mentors who genuinely care about each student's journey. Many have taught with us for years (some for decades), and their dedication shows in every class.

Behind the scenes, our volunteer board and parent helpers keep everything running. Calgary Mandarin School is truly built on the generosity of our community.

Interested in joining our team? We're always looking for passionate teachers and volunteers who want to make a difference.

Become a Volunteer Teaching Opportunities →

What Our Teachers Love

"Seeing a child's face light up when they finally read their first sentence in Chinese — that never gets old."

— Elementary teacher, 8 years

"I love that I can share my culture with the next generation. These kids will carry this with them forever."

— Junior high teacher, 12 years

"The parent community here is amazing. We're all working toward the same goal."

— Volunteer coordinator, 5 years

Come See for Yourself

歡迎親自來看看

We'd love to meet your family. Reach out to schedule a visit or ask any questions — we're here to help.

Get in Touch 聯絡我們 View Programs 課程介紹