Dan Bulman is a learning support teacher at the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) and the proud father of one of this year’s Jingkids World of Work interns, Sarah B. He has lived in China for 5 years and before that, took on teaching roles in Indonesia, Italy, Canada, and others.
Having worked in many different countries, could you tell us about one that holds special significance for you?
I spent eight years teaching in three different elementary schools in Indonesia. I loved my time there because Indonesians are very warm and welcoming and friendly (when they are not driving!). It is such a beautiful and rich country with an amazing culture. The schools I taught in were not great, but the students were always interesting and fun to work with. I also met my wife in Indonesia, so my heart has a special place for that country.
What is the biggest difference between WAB and the other schools you’ve worked at?
I have never been to a school that welcomes and treats Learning Support students with respect as much as WAB does. We try to value everyone’s differences and respect their strengths and weaknesses. This is also the best school I have worked in for helping students on their journey to self-discovery. Are we perfect? Definitely not. But we deal with problems head on and we strive to be the best school we can. That is what makes WAB special for me.
What is the hardest part of teaching for you?
Paperwork, meetings, report cards, meetings, and meetings are the hard part of teaching. Working with students is never really a pain.
What was the most rewarding experience at work?
The most rewarding experiences for me as a teacher have come when I have been able to help a student feel accepted and respected. So many students have so much trauma in their lives and don’t easily trust adults. When I have been able to break through the barriers they set up and earn their trust, I feel so happy.
I heard that you’ve taught a princess before. Can you tell us more?
I taught the Princess of Duino in northern Italy for one year (I was her PHE teacher). She was the most humble and friendly student and her mother volunteered at school and was incredibly friendly. Not only did they live in a real castle, but every year when the princess had a birthday, she invited her classmates and all the teachers to the castle for the party. She was one classy and wonderful princess!
What advice do you have for aspiring teachers?
Teachers teach students about life, not just academic subjects. The most important part of being a good teacher is developing a strong and secure relationship with your students. When students trust and respect their teacher, they become better risk-takers and thrive in class. So I would tell future teachers to focus on building strong relationships with their students and that will allow students to take off and do wonderful things!
Images: Sarah B
