School's Out for Summer

Today is the last day of regular classes around here. Summer Vacation officially begins tomorrow. It’s been quite a day, filled with a few tears. I’ve never really been very good with good-byes. These students have made a lasting impression, and I will forever be grateful to have had the opportunity to teach, guide and have fun with them. There are a few of my favorites that showered me with presents, cards and kisses. I really will miss them. They work so hard and have so much to give, if you open your heart and let them in.


For most of these students, the start of summer vacation isn’t much to talk about. Many of my students, continue to go to school even though they are on “vacation”. It’s basically a vacation from regular classes, and instead they get to go study somewhere else (YIPEE).

During the school year, my 13-15 year olds have school from 8:20- 4:20, they then rush off to another “hagwon” or academy where they will endure several more hours of instruction in the main subjects, such as, math, English, Science, Music. Their grueling schedule pains me. They sleep only a few hours a night, to get right back into the grind. They worry about their scores, and regular teenager fare.

I’m glad I had the opportunity to teach them about the World, that it is okay to laugh and of course have fun.
I will continue to pray that the Korean system changes it’s views on discipline and doctrine as these students have enough to deal with, without worrying about the looming threats of physical discipline. For god- sakes, they are only kids.

I’m looking forward to the next two weeks, where I will be spending my time at English Camp (essentially this is like our “day camps” back home except they are strictly educational). I’ll be teaching the wee ones, which in itself is an adventure! They are so cute, you just want to scoop them up!