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.
The students of Whispering Pines are required to study both Korean and Spanish. They can be found singing in Korean or Spanish at local churches or in school productions. They enjoy Korean and Latin American snacks or meals served at the school.
“We‘re offering an outstanding program here,” said Mr. Maurice Grant, the school’s principal. “With the global economy, our kids need to expand their options. We want to make that possible.”
The Whispering Pines SDA School is operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Its mission is to provide Christ-centered education that fosters a spirit of self-motivation and a love of learning. By creating an environment of high expectations, Whispering Pines aims to develop productive citizens for our world and for eternity.
For more information about about Whispering Pines SDA School, contact Ms. Mercy Kurian, vice principal Whispering Pines Seventh-day Adventist School at 516-997-5177.
Whispering Pines SDA School
211 Jericho Turnpike, Old Westbury
516-997-5177
whisperingpinesschool.org
