By Lu Yue | TFT ER Team
Today, we’d like to share something a little different.
This is not a report or a summary—it is a letter.
A letter written by Jia-Sheng Lee, a TFT alumna who served in rural Pingtung, to the graduating class she walked with for two years.
Dear My Children,
Congratulations on your graduation.
This is a letter I’ve wanted to write for a long time.
You may not remember every word, but these lines carry my truest feelings—my graduation gift to you.
Two years ago, I became a homeroom teacher for the first time. I was nervous and inexperienced, stepping into the classroom with equal parts excitement and fear. You were my very first class—and the beginning of my teaching journey.
In those early days, every morning felt like opening a mystery box. Some days were joyful, others heavy. There were conflicts, tears, and moments when I doubted myself so deeply that I was afraid to walk into the classroom. Once, after a fight broke out, I cried in the room—then had to pull myself together and keep going.
That was when I realized: you had already found a place in my heart.
Growing, Quietly and Steadily
Over time, we changed—together.
From fifth grade to sixth, you learned to remind one another, to take responsibility, to calm yourselves, and to care for the group. These changes may have felt small to you, but I saw them clearly—and I will never forget them.
We planned dreams and made them happen.
We traveled together, laughed endlessly, and created a graduation book filled with our shared memories. Other teachers began to notice your kindness and growth. You really did grow up.
Your emotions rose and fell, and sometimes confused you. But remember—these feelings are proof that you are growing. They will not last forever. One day, you will feel steadier, stronger, and more like yourself.
What I Hope You Carry Forward
More than anything, I hope you grow into confident people.
Not the strongest—but those who know their own uniqueness and where they shine.
Wherever you go next, remember this:
You have tried, fallen, and stood back up.
You have cared for friends—and been cared for in return.
If one day you feel tired or lost, remember—you can always come back.
The place that grew with you is still here.
And so is the teacher who once walked beside you.
You will become even more capable than you are now.
Every small effort you make will one day become a treasure no one can take away.
Thank you for walking with me through the very first chapter of my teaching life.
I will always remember you—my gentle, funny, hardworking children.
Happy graduation. I will always care for you.
—Teacher Jia-Sheng
Thank You for Walking With Us
Stories like this are only possible when teachers are given the time and stability to truly stay with children.
Your recurring support makes that stability possible. Monthly giving allows Teach For Taiwan to support teachers consistently and accompany children beyond one-time moments—through growth, change, and goodbyes.
Thank you for choosing long-term support. We invite you to stay connected with us through our website, Instagram, and Facebook, and continue walking with children and teachers together.
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