Class OutlineThe Manitoba Academy of Chinese Studies’ extensive Programs include:
A. MACS Instructional Programs:
1. Chinese Language Classes (Ages 4 - 16);
2. Chinese Language Classes (Adult);
3. Tai-ji Classes;
4. Chinese Art Class, e.g. Calligraphy, Painting.
B. MACS Cultural Programs:
1. Adult Choir: the Choir gives regular public performances at community events such as the annual concert "Echo of Spring", (jointly organized with the Italian Culture Centre);
2. Ballroom Dancing Classes: students perform at the Chinese New Year Celebration Party and participate in many other community gatherings;
3. Special Events: Chinese New Year Celebration Dinner Party, Annual Chinese Summer Camp (jointly organized with other 4 Chinese community groups), Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration;
4. Sports and Recreation Activities: e.g. sports tournaments.
C. MACS Organizational Functions:
1. Membership assemblies;
2. Community Functions: e.g. Board Member of the National Association of Chinese Language Schools;
3. Other Community Activities: CBC Radio Live recording the MACS Choir.
D. MACS Supporting Activities:
1. Monthly Newsletter;
2. Fund Raising;
3. Archives, etc.
From the very beginning, all programs have been staffed exclusively by volunteers from MACS own membership and their friends. Operational funding comes from student tuitions and charitable donations from members, parents and friends. A portion of the budget is raised by various fundraising activities, such as Chinese New Year Celebrations Banquet, and selling the coupon book of "Show &Save".
Since 1987, due to the increase in student enrollments in all of the instructional classes, and after careful research, the Academy decided to institute an honorarium system for the regular teaching staff. However, for the executive and other elected committee positions committee members continue to serve on a voluntary basis.
The Academy of Chinese Studies is structured with the membership as its highest authority. At the Annual spring and autumn membership meetings, important issues are discussed and policies determined. The 7 executives are elected from the membership at the General spring membership meeting. The executive members each hold the portfolio of: President, Secretary, Public Relations, Treasurer, Education, Culture and General Duties, each has a term of two years and serve on a strictly volunteer basis. Thus the Academy is a truly democratic organization founded and run by volunteers
Over the past thirty one years, MACS has not only actively promoted all aspects of Chinese education and cultural at the regional level, but has also played a key role in organizing the first National Conference on Chinese Education in Canada. In 1994, MACS successfully hosted the National Conference in our home city, Winnipeg. At present, MACS is still an Executive board member of the” Canada Association of Chinese Language Schools”. These national accomplishments support our belief that our local L efforts to promote heritage languages and culture are not only worthwhile, but play a critical role in building a strong and vibrant Canada
All of our Instructional programs as listed above have expanded rapidly over the past few years. For details about each program, please go to their individual links.
