The Chinese Village Club is moving forward with its plans to open its own bilingual, B.C.-accredited school – the Newbridge Academy – on the Semiahmoo Peninsula.
And while some details remain to be finalized, board members say they are hopeful that it can open by the fall of this year.
An important step was celebrated March 29, when the CVC formally opened its new suite of offices and classrooms in WindsorSquare.
CVC president Ying Liu told a crowd of well wishers (with interpretation help from CVC director Adele Yu) that when she had arrived in Canada it was the beginning of a new chapter for her family.
Not having any English language skills, she said, meant that she faced many difficulties and obstacles, but she was grateful for all the help she received.
She said that has been the inspiration for the club and the new academy – which will teach in both English and Mandarin – toshare language skills and bridge cultures.
“She decided not to enjoy a retiring life, but to go back into community service,” Yu said.
Among those who gathered to celebrate the opening were Newbridge Academy board members Doug Lauson, Debra Swain and Moti Bali (with his wife Rama), and Surrey-White Rock MLA Gordon Hogg, who presented a certificate of appreciation to You and the CVC.
Also present were White Rock Rotary president Raj Rajagopal, Sea Festival organizer Maureen Beales and Colleen Sharp, who brought well wishes on behalf of MP Dianne Watts, who was unable to attend due to illness.