Pasadena High School still has a Mandarin program, but the Pasadena Unified School District has decided to replace our current teacher.

Starting in the 2026 school year, Pasadena High School is planning to reduce the Mandarin program by eliminating the beginner levels, while only retaining higher-level courses such as AP Chinese. Removing Mandarin 1 and 2 would effectively eliminate the entry point for new students, preventing them from gaining exposure to a new language and culture.

In addition, this reduction would result in the layoff of Mr. He, a dedicated teacher who has spent years building meaningful connections with his students. Losing him would mean losing a teacher who not only teaches content, but also genuinely supports and cares for every student in his classroom.

Why This Matters

• Many students at our school are interested in learning Chinese but have never studied it before. Without introductory classes like Mandarin 1 and 2, they have no entry point into the program. As a result, they may never have the opportunity to begin learning the language at all.
• Most Mandarin students begin as freshmen in Mandarin 1 and 2. These classes are essential for building the skills and confidence needed to continue into Mandarin 3 and AP Chinese. Without them, there is no sustainable pathway for students to progress, which puts the entire program at risk in the long term.
• Mr. He does more than teach language and culture. He helps students develop strong study habits, adapt to high school expectations, and build confidence in their learning. For many students, his classroom is a place where they feel supported both academically and personally.
• The PHS Mandarin program is the only high school Mandarin program in the district. It attracts students from across different areas, including Sierra Madre, demonstrating its importance not only within the school, but to the broader community.
• Mr. He has created a supportive, engaging, and effective learning environment. Replacing him may disrupt student learning, weaken the program’s structure, and negatively impact the classroom experience for current and future students.