A Letter to my School

Hello everyone,

It has been eight months of fun teaching and exciting experience here and I wish I had more days to work, talk and play with you all.

To the students, thank you so much for studying and spending time with me. Live your life while you’re still young but study hard and do your best to make your dreams come true. Listen to your teachers because they care about you and want you to succeed.  

Moreover, I want to extend my deepest thanks to all teachers and staff for helping me always and understanding my poor Japanese. I admire your passion and dedication to your work. Amazing indeed.

Lastly, this is my first school as a teacher in Japan so I will never forget everyone. Thank you again. It has been a wonderful experience teaching and working with you all. See you!

Jerry :)

Mata ne!

February 9, 2017 – Wednesday
Year 1 - Day 149

Goodbye indeed is one of the saddest words. Today, I bid farewell to my school and emotions were everywhere. I was all good the whole time until one student came rushing after class to hand me a letter. She was crying while telling me that she's sad - then I couldn't get a grip on myself after that; even until I left the gate . . . 2 hours later.

I woke up a bit early today. Did my usual routine and went to work. Carrying my simple gifts for the teachers and staff in my school, I hurried to the locker room hoping no one would see me with my bags. Teacher meeting started and the next thing I knew, I was giving my speech to the members of the faculty. I was in awe that the English teachers prepared something for me. Wow!

This day was no different from the other days as far as classes are concerned. Only, I had to say my last words to each of them. There were instances in each class where a student or two would come forward with teary eyes and say their goodbyes. You have no idea what I was feeling every time. Hours passed and time to part ways. I was really overwhelmed with emotions when the teachers and staff came out to give me a rousing send-off. I was going down the stairs when I realized I was crying. Why?

I looked back and said my final thanks. Hopped in the taxi waiting by the gate and just let the emotions come out. My time in this school has come to an end.

I had a wonderful experience teaching and working in my first school in Japan. Everything was new and challenging. I know I wasn’t at my best but everyone was so understanding and helpful especially the English teachers. If I were to choose a school, I would definitely go back – better, livelier and more confident. Until we meet again.

(excerpt from my school journal)