Stratford School Altadena Celebrates Culture and Community on Campus during February and Hosts a Twilight Open House and Middle School Overview on March 18 for Prospective Families
During the month of February, the Stratford Altadena campus celebrated a jam-packed month of culture and community, with activities including Lunar New Year, Black History Month, an annual Valentine’s Day Dance, the school Spelling Bee, and more! The month proved to be an inspiring one for students in early preschool through middle school.
On February 18, Stratford School Altadena campus families joyously returned to celebrating the Lunar New Year as a community, after last year’s events were canceled due to the fires. This year of the horse, Stratford Altadena kicked off the Lunar New Year with a school-wide event that included a traditional Wushi Lion Dance performed by the Flying Dragon Foundation and a Bian Lian Face-Changing performance. Additionally, students in the Kindergarten through 4th-grade Mandarin Program performed their own lion and dragon dance, which they practiced for weeks to prepare for the exciting event. Guests also enjoyed a Sugar Drawing experience and Kung Fu Tea dancing, adding to the festive celebration.
As Stratford students have the opportunity to learn Mandarin or Spanish in their studies,
students will celebrate Spanish-speaking cultures with Dia de los Niños (Children’s Day) in April. Children’s Day is a popular holiday in Mexico and Latin America, where it is celebrated to honor children, recognize their importance and well-being in school, and support families. All Stratford students will participate in this festive day with Mexican crafts, helados (ice cream), balloons, and other fun cultural activities.
Stratford classes have also enjoyed learning about African American history during Black History Month. Students have engaged in meaningful conversations, research, and creative projects celebrating the achievements, contributions, and lasting impact of black leaders and communities. 5th grader Grant Lee, who created his report this year on Thurgood Marshall, remarked, “When you see injustice, say something. Do not be afraid to speak up, stand up for what is right, and advocate for those who may not have a voice.”
February also marked Stratford’s annual Spelling Bee with winners from each grade level, a Valentine’s Day Dance honoring love and kindness month, and 8th-grade art inspired by the Buddhist Monks’ 108-day journey covering 2,300 miles during the 2026 Walk for Peace.
Visit Stratford School Altadena for a Twilight Open House on Wednesday, March 18, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for all grade levels – early preschool (age 2) through 8th grade. Middle School families can also attend a Middle School Overview on that day, which will give an in-depth look at what students are learning in grades 6-8. Middle School teachers will be present to go over the curriculum and answer questions about the middle school classroom experience. To register for the Twilight Open House, attend the Middle School Overview, or tour the campus, visit stratfordschools.com/altadena or contact the Director of Admissions, Katya Maillette, at kmaillette@stratfordschools.com or 626-794-1000.
