By Lu Yue | TFT ER Team
What does it mean to truly help a child learn?
Is it about improving test scores—or helping them believe they can try again?
And when a child falls behind, what do they really need most?
Today, we’d like to share a story from the classroom—one that reminds us that education is not only about knowledge, but about understanding and companionship.
Starting from Where Children Are
In a small classroom in Miaoli, Ting-An works with upper elementary students who struggle with math. During regular class time, they come to her for small-group support—creating space for more attentive, personalized learning.
At first, the classroom made her feel challenged. Conflicts between students disrupted lessons, and incomplete assignments were common. Ting-An found herself asking:
Why are they disengaged? Am I missing something as a teacher?
Instead of stepping back, she chose to look closer.
Drawing from training in differentiated instruction, she redesigned her lessons. Students were grouped by learning needs—some worked independently with structured guidance, others collaborated, while she supported those who needed more help.
Gradually, something shifted.
The classroom became more focused. Conflicts decreased.
And learning began to take root again.
Reaching Further, So No One Falls Behind
Beyond academics, Ting-An realized that learning challenges often reflected something deeper.
Rather than relying only on discipline, she began having one-on-one conversations with students—asking about their lives, setting small, achievable goals together.
She also tried something new: writing letters.
To six students, she wrote about what she saw in them—their strengths, their effort, and where they could grow. Most responded thoughtfully. Some opened up in ways they never had before.
In those moments, she discovered something simple yet powerful:
When we are willing to reach out just a little further, children are more likely to feel seen—and to keep trying.
Becoming a Teacher, Becoming More Fully Human
Through these daily interactions, Ting-An began to see not only her students more clearly—but also herself.
She saw her own doubts, her fears, and her limitations.
But she also saw that growth happens when we choose to act, even when we are uncertain.
As a TFT Fellow, she entered education hoping to address inequality.
Along the way, she found something more: a deeper understanding of what it means to stand beside others.
“If children are like seedlings,” she reflects,
“I hope to be the air that quietly supports their growth.”
Thank You for Walking With Us
Your ongoing support provides the stability that makes sustained change possible—so teachers can keep showing up, and children can keep growing.
Thank you for standing with Teach For Taiwan through your long-term commitment.
We warmly invite you to stay connected through our website, Facebook, and Instagram, and continue witnessing the journeys you make possible.
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