Caitlin Harris, Shannon Meadows and Kathy Harris

"Julia Green Knows Now with Mandarin Minutes" is the winning bi-lingual program developed by Harris and her co-team members, Meadows and Harris. It is designed to give students an opportunity to write, produce and deliver their own news show. Because Julia Green Elementary is one of only two elementary schools in the district teaching Mandarin Chinese to its population, a segment integrating Mandarin greetings and conversations into the school morning news program will enhance the students' language learning. Although the teachers will serve as guides, students will direct the content. This program gives the students the opportunity to practice written and oral communication skills in both English and Mandarin Chinese as well as builds their confidence. Additionally, they will increase their technological competence through the use of computers, video and recording components. With nearly 500 students at Julia Green Elementary, every child will benefit from the program.