Rave Reviews from China

"Marie is so good for your teaching, she almost remeber every word you taught."

- Amy, the leader of the Internet teaching branch of Opal (June 1, 2011)

"Wendy's English is improving so fast. Her mother is so happy and appreciate you very much. Especially her listening and speaking."

- Susan, my assistant/translator (May 31, 2011)

"You are a good teacher and you make the students enjoy your class not only the students can get more knowledge in class. that is great. so i will give you one new class. ... you are a good and patient teacher so you will adapt for teaching young kid more in my opinion."

- Amy, the leader of the Internet teaching branch of Opal (April 26, 2011)

"Your class is perfection."

- Susan, my assistant/translator (April 6, 2011)

"Thanks for your hard working these months. I will miss you and you are a great teacher truly. It is my pleasure to work with you. You are so nice patient and lively teacher. I really like you."

- Amy, the leader of the Internet teaching branch of Opal (August 24, 2011)

"Thank you for your class. I love it so much."

- Alicia, a substitute assistant (August 24, 2011)

Marie Moves Me

I've been teaching a 5 year-old in China for just over a month now. When we began, neither she nor her mother knew any English at all. But now she sings the alphabet perfectly, can draw the letters beautifully and pronounce them flawlessly. I am so proud of her.

As her first English teacher, it was my responsibility to give her a name. I gave her "Marie," the middle name that I share with Sophia (my daughter). Every time I praise her good work, she says "thank you, Jen!" It is a joy to share my Wednesday evenings with Marie and her mother.

The best part of our lessons is the love I get to witness between Marie and her mother. When Marie is particularly proud of herself, she beams and reaches out to her mother to hug her and kiss her. Their affection is almost palpable and I am so privileged to participate in this small piece of their lives.

I've heard of harsh Asian parents who drive their children to perform at any expense. When I was offered this job, I was afraid that teaching English to a 5 year-old might somehow participate in a cruel, inhumane system. But it has been anything but. Marie loves our lessons, is a delightful and enthusiastic learner, and is supported by -- not commanded by -- a loving and patient mother. I am so honored to know Marie and her mother, and their love for each other.