A Taste Of China Seattle Schools New Guest Teacher Shares Language And Culture Of Her Native Home
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A Taste of China: Seattle Schools Welcome New Guest Teacher
Summary
Seattle schools recently welcomed Zhu Dan, a guest teacher from Kunming, China, who will participate in an 18-month teaching program. With the possibility of extending her stay for another year, Dan brings her expertise in college-level English and a passion for cultural exchange.Introduction
Seattle schools are embracing a unique opportunity to enhance their educational programs by introducing Zhu Dan as a guest teacher. Arriving in January, Dan is part of a broader initiative to promote Mandarin learning, in collaboration with China’s Hanban institute and the College Board. This partnership aims to increase the presence of Mandarin educators across the United States, with expectations to expand to 250 teachers by 2009.Promoting Mandarin in Seattle
Seattle's schools have recognized the need to broaden their international focus, especially in Pacific Coast states with strong business ties to China. Inspired by a recent visit to China, Chief Sealth High School's Principal John Boyd, along with world language program leader Noah Zeichner, decided to offer Mandarin courses. The school already benefits from a student exchange program with Chongqing, China.Zhu Dan’s Role
Zhu Dan teaches Mandarin at Denny Middle, Madison Middle, and Chief Sealth High Schools. The Hanban institute provides her stipend, while Seattle schools cover housing and travel expenses. Dan is currently staying with Sealth teacher Frank Cantwell and his family.Dan's motivations for applying to the guest teacher program include improving her English, fostering American understanding of Chinese culture, and establishing a solid Mandarin program in Seattle schools. She aims to equip students with enough Mandarin skills for future travels to China.
Cultural and Educational Exchange
Before her journey to Seattle, Dan completed a two-week training in Beijing, focusing on American culture, education, and financial systems. Her students in Seattle chose to learn Mandarin out of curiosity or familial connections to the language. Within two weeks, they learned to count to ten, pronounce their given Chinese names, and sing a Chinese New Year song set to “My Darlin’ Clementine.” Dan also incorporates cultural insights, enriching the learning experience.Expanding Mandarin Education
In addition to the guest teacher program, several Seattle schools now offer Mandarin language classes and Advanced Placement courses in Chinese. These programs provide college credit opportunities for students who pass AP exams. Currently, Dan's class at Sealth High School is held after school but will become part of the regular curriculum in the fall. Principal Boyd encourages other elementary schools to consider applying for an additional guest teacher to further support Mandarin education.By hosting teachers like Zhu Dan, Seattle schools not only broaden students’ horizons but also strengthen cultural ties and understanding between nations.
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