Principal's Welcome

Students, Families, and Community Members,

Welcome to a new school year at Buckeye Union Mandarin Immersion Charter School (BUMI)! It is my great honor to serve as principal of a program I have been proud to help build from the very beginning.

As the first teacher hired when BUMI was founded, I have had the privilege of watching this program grow from a vision into a vibrant, thriving community. I am incredibly proud of our students, staff, and families who have helped shape our school into a place where academic excellence and bilingualism flourish hand in hand.

My educational journey has deeply informed my commitment to this work. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Management Science and a Master of Education from the University of California- San Diego, and I recently completed my Doctor of Education at the University of Southern California. These experiences have shaped my belief that every child deserves access to a joyful, rigorous, and meaningful education—one that prepares them not only to meet today’s challenges but to lead in tomorrow’s world.

At BUMI, we hold high expectations for our students while nurturing the whole child. We believe that language learning, social emotional development, and academic mastery go hand in hand. As we continue to grow together, I invite all families to be active partners in our journey. Your support and involvement are key to creating the inclusive and enriching environment that defines our school.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. I look forward to a school year filled with learning, connection, and shared success.

Warm regards,
Lu Zhai, Ed.D.
Principal