Whispering Pines SDA School Hosts International Korean Language Teacher

The Whispering Pines Seventh-day Adventist School in Old Westbury recently hosted Ms. Claire Lee, a teaching intern from South Korea, as part of its Korean language and culture program. The program, started in 2012, is open to all Whispering Pines students, from pre-K to 8th grade. It enables participants to understand and appreciate the Korean culture while gaining practical fluency in the language.

“The kids are very friendly here,” said Ms. Lee. “They are very affectionate and are always smiling.”

As a learner of English herself, Ms. Lee finds that in working with the students of Whispering Pines, the teacher’s and student’s roles are balanced – both learn from each other during classes as well as throughout the school day.

The program fosters respect for both Korean and US cultures and communities.

“I love teaching the kids how to read and write in Korean," said Ms. Lee. “When I return to Korea, I will tell the students there about my time at Whispering Pines. Hopefully, I can bring over some of my students in the future.” Ms. Lee will return to her home country at the end of February. However, she will have the chance to reunite with many of her Whispering Pines students when 12 members of the Upper School (grades 7-8) travel to South Korea in May 2019 for three weeks of immersion in Korean language and culture.

Benefits of Learning other languages have shown cognitive, economic, and cultural benefits. Learning a second language has a positive effect on intellectual growth and enhances a child's mental development. It opens the door to other cultures and helps a child understand and appreciate people from other backgrounds. Finally, it Increases job opportunities in many careers where knowing another language is a real asset.