“Living in Vietnam, a foreign land to me, and being a “foreigner” from South Korea might have been challenging. Yet, thanks to the teachers who cared, encouraged, comforted, and supported me, this place no longer feels unfamiliar or challenging to adapt to. I’ve lived here with a sense of ease, safety, and joy. Now, as a 12th grader, I am busy preparing for college. Soon, I will graduate and take my first steps into adulthood. I am reaching the final stage of preparing to venture alone into the vast and deep ocean that is life. But I am not afraid as I am armed with a resilient spirit, thanks to the warm love and care of my teachers.”
These heartfelt words from Hwang Hwi, a 12th-grade student in class 12Austin, echo the gratitude of all TDSers on the occasion of Vietnam Teachers’ Day, November 20. For the students, The Dewey Schools are more than just a place of learning—it is a loving home.
In the warm and solemn atmosphere of the ceremony, The Dewey Schools reflected on the silent dedication of its educators, honoring their invaluable contributions. With passion and enthusiasm, Dewey teachers have planted seeds of knowledge, ignited passions, and inspired countless generations of students to confidently face life’s challenges. Over the past 13 years, this journey of continuous learning and effort by every Dewey educator has borne fruit: the success, happiness, and growth of each student, as well as the trust and affection of parents.
“When I was little, I used to dream of studying at a school like the one in the story ‘Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the Window’. In that school, students were eager to explore new things, differences were embraced, and every child was recognized for their true abilities. While my generation didn’t have the chance to study in such a school, today, you are so fortunate to learn at The Dewey Schools. Even without classrooms in train cars, the dedication of your teachers makes me feel that Dewey truly is the school I once dreamed of as a child,” shared Dinh Van Trang, a representative of the Dewey Parent Council, in her touching message to the TDSers.
This year’s appreciation ceremony was marked by deeply emotional moments. From posters lovingly designed by TDSers, video clips featuring heartfelt wishes for teachers, and surprise bouquets, to vibrant musical performances—every gesture radiated the innocent yet profound sincerity of the students. Yesterday, it was evident that the teachers felt the love in the sparkling eyes, radiant smiles, and joyous cheers of their students.
The song “Walking Under the Radiant Sky” resonated throughout the ceremony, carrying a heartfelt message of hope and promise for the future:
“Live fully, cherish each sincere moment,
Youth is waiting, the dawn of life as beautiful as a dream.
And live fully, though the heart may still be uncertain.
Stride confidently under the radiant sky.”
The values nurtured by teachers today are not only a solid foundation for TDSers on their future journeys but also an enduring source of inspiration for them to pursue great dreams. Under the sky of knowledge and love, TDSers are confidently forging their own journey “beyond the blueprint, mapping own way.”
