From Flight Attendant to Teacher: Ni Tong-juan Honored for Guiding Students to Learn and Build Confidence

Ni Tong-juan, a teacher at Hui Ji Junior High School in Taoyuan City, has been honored with the National Education Award and recognized as an exemplary educator by the Ministry of Education. Her career path, which began as a flight attendant before transitioning to teaching, is marked by a deep commitment to supporting students and fostering their confidence.

Ni attributes her dedication to helping others to her parents' teachings on politeness and care. Her experience as a flight attendant, traveling to 18 countries, exposed her to diverse cultures and student expressions, influencing her teaching style. This background equipped her with the skills to handle various situations and cater to different needs, shaping her approach to education.

Upon becoming a teacher, Ni worked in various roles, including as a homeroom teacher and teaching Chinese in the U.S. Detroit school district. She focused on engaging students from disadvantaged backgrounds, emphasizing not just curriculum delivery but also building their willingness to learn and self-esteem. She introduced classroom rituals, such as moments of quiet reflection and greetings, to establish order and mutual respect, which were initially met with some resistance but ultimately proved effective.

Ni's teaching philosophy centers on encouraging student participation and responsibility in daily tasks and class activities, thereby developing their decision-making and teamwork skills. She maintains consistent communication with parents to create a supportive learning network. For students facing attention or emotional challenges, she provides consistent companionship and guidance, fostering peer understanding and support to help them adapt to school life. Ni believes that every child is a vital part of the future and that education's true value lies in providing the right support for their stable development.