Become a Friends of MIP Sponsor

The Friends of Mandarin Immersion Program (MIP) of the Capistrano Unified School District has been a part of the South Orange County community since 2010. In this time, MIP has expanded from K-5 classes at Marian Bergeson Elementary to a full program that matriculates to Newhart Middle School and Capistrano Valley High School. Students in MIP have come from all over Orange County to be a part of our internationally recognized program, including the cities of Irvine, San Juan Capistrano, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Niguel, and San Clemente. MIP offers students a unique opportunity to learn the Mandarin language and become competent and competitive candidates in an increasingly global workforce and world. 

Capistrano USD is a 2022 recipient of the California School Boards Association (CSBA) Golden Bell award for Biliteracy, due in part to the tremendous efforts behind ensuring the success of the Mandarin Immersion Program. The CSBA promotes excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices of school boards in school districts and county offices of education throughout California. 

Friends of MIP is the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides funding, outreach, and support to further our students’ development of communication and literacy skills in both Mandarin and English, to strengthen the learning experience within the classroom, and to foster multicultural appreciation and understanding. We wouldn’t be able to support our students on their educational journey without local sponsors