Educational background and the origin of a passion for teaching
Author John Steinbeck once wrote: “A great teacher is also a great artist. Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit.” Sowing seeds of knowledge and love, Mr. Tate Lamoreaux, the homeroom teacher of 9Copenhagen at Dewey, embodies such a teacher.
Graduating with a Master’s degree in Secondary Education with a focus on English and History from Arizona State University (USA), teaching is the “fertile ground” where Mr. Tate cultivates happiness through imparting knowledge to his students. Driven by a desire to provide students with knowledge and experiences about the culture and history of various countries, and to spread the love and passion for reading, Mr. Tate naturally found his calling in teaching.
The journey to the Dewey family
Holding a special affection for Hanoi, Mr. Tate regards his bond with Dewey as a perfect match. Leaving the United States and moving to Vietnam with his small family, this young teacher carried with him enthusiasm, passion, and dedication for the profession.
As the father of a four-year-old son, Mr. Tate brings the love and patience of a father into his teaching. “To me, teaching is just like being a father; it requires patience, love, and compassion. I understand that students, regardless of their age, sometimes make mistakes, occasionally act impulsively, and sometimes feel lost, just like my little son. A stern look, a sincere piece of advice, protection, and guidance are natural responses of a teacher in such moments. A teacher is like a father in the sense that, even when the child doesn’t need your help, you still help them them,” Mr. Tate shared.
During his two years at Dewey, Mr. Tate’s joy has been doing the work he loves and witnessing his students grow each day. Like a father watching over every step his child takes, Mr. Tate always accompanies his students, listens to their thoughts and feelings, and supports them on every journey. Speaking about Mr. Tate, Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc, the parent of a 9Copenhagen student, emotionally shared: “I am truly grateful and touched by Mr. Tate’s concern for Minh Duc when he found out my son was preparing to study abroad. Mr. Tate reached out to him, saying that if he encountered any difficulties abroad, he shouldn’t hesitate to email him, as he is always there and ready to help.”
Teaching methods and skill development for students
As the homeroom teacher of class 9Copenhagen, Mr. Tate understands that adolescence is a sensitive and challenging transitional period. He not only focuses on imparting knowledge but also encourages students to develop holistically, both in spirit and character. “In the IB MYP curriculum, I always incorporate and emphasize effective soft skills such as mindfulness, discipline, and perseverance, helping students better manage their emotions. For instance, meditating before a test helps them stay calm. This is how I teach them to handle stress and pressure in life. While I may not be a perfect teacher, I always try to make a welcoming environment so that they can voice their fear, and difficulties. It’s like a no shame zone.”
“Intelligent, witty, and always dedicated to his students” is how Chloe, a 9Copenhagen student, describes Mr. Tate. “Mr. Tate never pressured us academically. He allows us to submit assignments later when we have a heavy workload from other subjects. His teaching methods in class are also very engaging; he always integrates games into the lessons to keep them from becoming boring.”
Viewpoints on success
For Mr. Tate, success is not measured by grades but by the daily efforts and progress of his students. “I always remind my students that while education is not everything in life, it is the most important thing at this moment. You don’t need to be perfect students, but always strive to do your best while you are in school. In class, I want you to focus completely on the lessons, but after school, don’t be overly concerned or worried about what happened at school today. I want you to enjoy your life fully beyond the school gates. Do what you love, explore the world around you, and build good relationships. Don’t just be a good student at school; be a kind person in society.” These are the heartfelt messages Mr. Tate shares with his students.
Upholding the spirit of student freedom is a core educational philosophy ingrained in Mr. Tate’s teaching approach and shared by the entire teaching staff at Dewey. We believe that regardless of the conventions pursued, education should always aim to create an environment where students can do what they love, live freely with their passions, and express their aspirations. Dewey is a place where students have equal rights, are respected, and can fully develop their potential.
