About Shu Ren
Shu Ren is a non-profit 501( c )(3) organization that supports the Mandarin Immersion Program (MIP) of Portland Public Schools. The character "Shu" means tree and "Ren" means person. "Shu" also means cultivate, nurture or rear. "Shu Ren" is often used as a title for schools, groups or organizations in China that educate or nurture children. Shu Ren is governed by a board of directors and is supported through membership dues, grants, and fund-raising activities.
The two languages of the bilingual child are interdependent. They do not compete for limited space and resources. Bilingualism is good for children of all backgrounds.
– Dr. Amado Padilla, School of Educations, Stanford University
What Shu Ren does for the Immersion Program.
Shu Ren contributes to the success and continuance of the MIP by raising money to support and organize programs such as the homework club; putting on community-building and fundraising events such as the dumpling festival, the gala, and others; and helping organize and financially support major aspects of the MIP such as the 8th grade China Research Residency (CRR), through the Gala Auction and other smaller fundraisers. We have also arranged a class in Mandarin for parents, and we provide tours of Woodstock School for prospective parents.
Shu Ren also serves advocates for parents and for the goals of the MIP. In 2009 Shu Ren members made trips to Salem to testify to a legislative committee on the importance of keeping all-day kindergarten programs in PPS. We serve as a diplomatic liaison when there are concerns about teaching or scheduled school events, and work closely with the PTA to foster a better school environment for all. In 2009-2010, Shu Ren has been actively engaged in the High School redesign process with PPS staff to ensure that immersion needs are taken into account in the redesign.
Shu Ren provides funds for classroom materials and field trips related to Chinese language, arts, and culture requested by our Chinese teachers, and helps stock the school libraries with Mandarin books, movies, audio book CDs, and a learning game for the Nintendo DS called "My Chinese Coach.” We also sell Mandarin flashcards and games to reinforce the vocabulary learned in class.
