May 2026 Read Across SMSD- Honor Heritage

Honor Heritage

The Shawnee Mission School District celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May with the theme "Honor Heritage."

Featured Book

This year's featured book is "Tricky Chopsticks" by Sylvia Chen. The story follows a Chinese American girl learning to use chopsticks, which helps her connect to her cultural roots.

Cultural Traditions

• Nora, a Taiwanese student, enjoys the red envelope tradition during New Year's celebrations.
• Yuki, a Japanese student, plays with tops and folds origami.
• Kazuha, a Japanese student, demonstrates the kendama, a traditional Japanese toy.
• Rose, a Vietnamese and German student, highlights her grandmother's pho, a comforting dish.

Family Traditions

• Dr. Gonser shares a fish fry tradition during the Winter Solstice, emphasizing family and friendship.

Resources

For more information and resources, visit the Read Across SMSD webpage.

NEA Book List

• Elementary: Tricky Chopsticks By Sylvia Chen
• Don't Cause Trouble By Arree Chung
• Midnights with You by Clare Osongco