Faculty gain a deeper understanding and connection to Korea

This past summer, three teachers at The Elisabeth Morrow School received a special invitation to travel to South Korea with Sejong Cultural Education Inc., an Englewood Cliff, N.J., group focused on expanding understanding of the history and culture of Korea and Korean Americans by first-hand experiences within the country.

For 10 days, Chilton House 3s/4s head teacher Carissa Garcia, Chilton House and Little School music teacher Emily Spaeth, and Morrow House humanities teacher Dorianne Steele toured several cities, including Seoul, Gwangju, and Busan. During this once-in-a-lifetime trip, these three educators visited the usual tourist attractions. They also spent the weekend with a host family, who gave them real insight into the day-to-day lives of the people of Korea.

Through their many adventures (see the interactive map below), they gained a deeper understanding and connection to the people and culture of Korea, which they are excited to share with our students.

“There is no better way to get to know a country and its people than by traveling there and experiencing the culture firsthand,” says Spaeth, who has many new things to share with our students, such as songs and games.

“I was immersed in an amazing culture which stretched and inspired me both personally and professionally,” Garcia says of this transformative experience. “I returned home curious to know more about others and determined to be a more intentional listener. I find myself taking more deliberate steps to create an inclusive classroom community both for my students and for their families.”

Steele added, “Traveling to Korea was one of the most eye-opening experiences I have had as an educator. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to incorporating new understandings into my classroom.”