After graduating from university, Mr. Jared moved to South Korea to begin a new chapter as an ESL teacher. Although teaching was not his major at university, this unexpected first step grew into a lifelong commitment to education. Finding joy in accompanying students on their learning journeys, he came to see teaching as “a calling” in his life. With a Master’s Degree in Higher Education and 16 years of teaching experience, he continues his journey as a Humanities teacher at Dewey.
With 10 years of experience teaching ESL in Korea, Mr. Jared is familiar with working with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. His experience has helped him understand that creating an inclusive classroom should begin with respect and empathy. He always encourages students to see diversity as an opportunity to learn from one another, step into different perspectives to look beyond their own experiences.
For Mr. Jared, student well-being is just as important as academic performance. Having previously been a Grade 8 homeroom teacher – a stage when students are navigating significant emotional changes, he places great importance on getting to know his students personally. “The small things we do as teachers can make the greatest difference. Showing up consistently and truly listening to students can be more powerful than simply offering advice,” he shared. Recognizing that students at this age are becoming more independent while still needing guidance and support, Mr. Jared balances structure with choice. Whether through assignments or projects, he gives students options to complete their work in different ways, as long as they ultimately demonstrate the required learning standards.
Lee Seo Yeon (9Cannes) – one of his former students, still remembers her presentation on the American Civil War and World War II last year. “Teacher Jared always encouraged me to explore and discover information and create the project in the style I like.” But what she appreciates most is how Mr. Jared cares for his students as individuals. “He knows about our interests and even celebrates our birthdays each month with small gifts. The way he always checks in on how we’re feeling makes us feel like we are being cared for and supported.” – She recalled.
Mr. Jared believes that teaching goes beyond delivering lessons or helping students meet academic standards. It is about building meaningful relationships, creating a space where every student feels seen, heard, and respected, and encouraging them to become confident in their own perspectives. Perhaps that is what turns an unexpected career path into a calling: the opportunity to walk alongside students, understand who they are, and support them during their growth journey.
