Journey from Laos to La Crosse

For 16 years, the School District of La Crosse and the Hmong Cultural & Community Center (HCCC) have worked together to give every 4th grade student a meaningful introduction to Hmong history and culture. Through the Hmong Education Project—aligned with state standards and district curriculum—more than 500 students and teachers each year experience a powerful, half-day immersion at HCCC that brings learning to life in an authentic and culturally grounded way.

In 2024, the program expanded to serve Onalaska, Holmen, and G-E-T School Districts, adding two additional weeks fully staffed by dedicated volunteers. This growth not only broadens access, but strengthens regional understanding, connection, and appreciation for the Hmong community—impacting students, families, and classrooms across our area.

Mai Tia Yang was born in Laos at the end of the Vietnam War and came to the United States as a refugee in 1978. After living in California, she settled in La Crosse in 2003, which she now proudly calls home. Over the years, Mai Tia has gained experience in both the legal and medical fields. In 2024 she began volunteering with the Hmong Cultural and Community Center, where she now serves as Board Secretary and Program Manager.

Deeply committed to women’s wellness, community health education, and preserving Hmong cultural traditions, Mai Tia hopes to build sustainable programs that empower Hmong women and foster strong intergenerational connections for future generations.