The Asian American and Pacific Islanders Club is dedicated to bringing people together from different ethnicities and cultures. 

AAPIA aims to celebrate and support diversity. They provide opportunities to learn about the diverse histories, cultures, and experiences and to build a supportive community and educate about AAPIA, cultures and identities, members watch videos and have discussions about these topics.

 Mr. Barry Reardon has expressed the reason he decided to be head teacher of AAPIA is due to Vivian Le being a nice kid and great student when she asked him to be advisor. Students who want help to understand AAPIA and other cultures may join this group to accept themselves more and feel comfortable.

Reardon said, “Being an inclusive teacher means helping my students learn and appreciate the cultural diversity of our school.”

Club members love celebrating different heritages around the school with cultural foods and traditional paper crafts that honor the heritage and bring family and friends together.

Reardon stated, “Advice for AAPIA students who are facing pressure or stereotypes can just be themselves, most students just want to be around people with positive energy and a welcoming environment. Providing a voice for all my students is how I create a classroom environment that is a safe and respectful place.”

According to Issac Ramirez as vice president this club helps shape the view by having other people join in on these traditions and learn about other people’s culture.

 “No matter the background we are all united in many ways,” he said, “I myself am not Asian American and Pacific Islander but love learning about different cultures and as a member we try to engage with all types of people no matter their background.” 

Asian American and Pacific Islanders heritage month of May means a lot to the club.  Nathan Riofrio as AAPIA media producer said, “Although it was only until last year that I joined AAPIA, this club has meant so much to me. I have gotten a chance to talk to other members that have more knowledge about Asian culture and have an amazing time with other club members.”

According to Riofrio the AAPIA Club will only improve from here. He believes that his current work within the club will assist members with interacting with other clubs. 

The club meetings are once a month on Tuesdays in room 45. If any have questions, see Mr. Reardon.