Each Chinese calendar year has an animal associated with it, in a cycle of 12. Chinese legend has it that the Jade Emperor wanted to help his people keep track of time. So, he invited all the animals to participate in a race, promising to name a year after each of the first 12 animals who won the race. Students at the nonprofit SACCI’s weekend Chinese school in San Antonio learn about Chinese culture and history through use of authentic materials and resources written in traditional Chinese.