Departure from Taiwan on Saturday, July 31

On July 31, the American student teachers prepared to leave Kaohsiung. They traveled to the airport with their host families, and found a large group of San Sin students waiting there for them to say “good-bye.” The students gave their American teachers some farewell gifts and many, many hugs. The host families wished them well, and expressed the hope that some of the American student teachers would return to Taiwan for next year’s summer program.

Many last-minute pictures were taken to help them remember their new and wonderful across-the-globe friendships. They promised to stay in touch on Facebook and through Skype and e-mail…..and they separated with waves and tearful eyes!

Once back in Tallahassee, the American student teachers reunited at the Bamboo House, their favorite Taiwanese restaurant, for a Summer English Program follow-up meeting with Dr. O'Kon, Mr. John Gelabert, and Mr. Jerry Fussell!

American student teachers meet at the Bamboo House!

If you would like to look at our "Sleep Gallery," go to:
http://tcctaiwansleep2010.blogspot.com/

Farewell Dinner with Host Families: July 30

On Friday, July 30, a Farewell Dinner was held at the Hotel Kingdom to show appreciation to the host families and to the American student teachers. The host families showed tremendous hospitality and kindness to the visiting American student teachers.  In addition, Mrs. Helen Lie and Mr. Shih were presented with gifts and many hugs of appreciation!

Each host family received a digital photo viewer with many pictures of the student teachers.  Helen Lie presented each student teacher with a unique gift from the Chinese Handicraft Mart on Taipei, and a lovely plaque of appreciation! 

The teaching assistants who helped the teachers every day with the Summer English Program were also recognized. Their help was invaluable! (Pictured above: Alex, Sunny, Kim, and Tina). Also, the office assistants Zach and Vivian were always working to support the Summer English Program behind the scenes, and they were recognized for their assistance.  Thanks to both of them for their hard work!

A big thank you to everyone who helped our Summer English Program be successful this year!  We appreciate them and want them to know how special they are to us!