How time flies! It has been a year since I came to the US to teach. Although there were many differences and difficulties, I did my best 

to overcome the challenges and to assimilate into a new culture. I was honored “Outstanding Contribution” by the school district and

 “Excellent Teacher” at DeRenne.

The following is a summary of what I accomplished during school year of 2017-2018.

Teaching language Proficiency

1. I taught American students mandarin at the beginning and advanced levels.

2. Not only did I help 16 students pass YCT Tests and 2 students win the Chinese Spoken Language Contest held by FLAG, but also helped

 students prepare the "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition and “My Story with Confucius Institute” Composition Competition.

Teaching Cultural Connections

1. I provided students and locals chances to experience Chinese culture by organizing a Beijing Opera Field Trip, taking part in activities 

such as  “ School Day”, “Home Coming Parade” , parent conferences.

2. I assisted Confucius Institute at SSU to host several festival parties to present dynamic Chinese culture to coworkers and locals.

3. I taught students how to use chopsticks, make paper cuttings, draw masks, make kites, learn Chinese dance, and so on.

Self improvement

1. I participated in our school district’s THIVE Training, SCOLT Annual Conference, and ED Camp held at Georgia Southern University.

2. I shared teaching experiences and ideas with other teachers.

Other

1. I assisted with the preparation of the FLAG Spoken Language Contest, and worked as a judge.

2. I helped local teachers to communicate with Chinese parents.

Awards

1. “ Outstanding Contribution” in the school district

2. “ Excellent teacher” at Derenne Middle School

3. “ Teacher Success Showcase” honoree

Goals

1. Provide more opportunities for schools and students on both sides to cooperate.

2. Let both sides benefit from the joint efforts.

3. Improve the awareness of being global citizens.

Reflection

  I have experienced an authentic American class and life during this year. Life is always full of the expected and unexpected.

 But thanks to all the unexpected, I have grown stronger, because of them.

  I will never forget I’m the representative of the Chinese culture, I will always remember I’m a teacher from the Experimental 

School of SMS. In the future, I will continue working hard on teaching language proficiency and Chinese cultural awareness.

Shuyu Liu