Communications :: News Release

[May 19, 2008]

District hires native speaker to teach Mandarin Chinese in 2008-2009

Mansfield ISD is pleased to announce the addition of six Chinese foreign language classes being offered beginning fall 2008. The district has hired Lei-Jane Chou, a native Chinese speaker, to teach multiple levels of Mandarin Chinese. Students wishing to take a Chinese language course will have until May 30, 2008 to replace one of their previous Languages Other Than English/Foreign Language course selections.

“The addition of Chinese to the MISD language offerings is another example of the district's continued commitment to provide our students with the advanced academic experiences,” says Deputy Superintendent, Dr. Bob Morrison. “Experiences like these will be beneficial as they enter the global working environment.”

Below are answers to some questions sent to the district's new Chinese teacher, Lei-Jane Chou (pictured at right) who is presently teaching at the Kun Shan University of Technology in Taiwan:

Q1: What are your thoughts on coming to the U.S. to teach?
Starting a new job is always an adventure. It is something we should look forward to. I am no stranger to the American way of doing things. I received my MA degree at the University of New Mexico. I have always found it fun, refreshing and educational to work and play in another culture. This should be the main reason why learning second language is important. At times, I found the American approach of doing things to be confusing. My American husband has taken the time to offer great insight and explained how this approach was no different than the Chinese way of looking at things. But getting back to your question on my thoughts on coming to the U. S. to teach. A new school, new co-teachers, new expectations and a new house. Students are the same the world over.

Q2: Why did you choose to teach in Mansfield ISD?
I have heard from very reliable voices that Mansfield is a growing district which takes great effort in attracting highly qualified teachers.

Q3. What is your teaching or instructional philosophy?
All students can learn! We, as teachers, should always be in a position in which we are encouraging and guiding our students. Yes, at times we encounter a student who does not progress as fast as we like. We must always display a positive demeanor. We should never allow any student to be frustrated. As a teacher I have found the use of computers to be especially valuable. It is important, for us as teachers, to demonstrate what our students are learning holds great value. Proper communication, meaningful communication, is important in our global village.

Descriptions of the new Chinese language courses being offered by the MISD to high school students (grades 9-12) during the 2008-2009 school year and beyond.

If students wish to replace a previous “Languages Other Than English/Foreign Language” course selection with Chinese, they need fill out the form and return it to their high school counselor. Please remember that May 30, 2008 is the final deadline for any changes to your course selections. ALL SCHEDULE CHANGE REQUESTS MUST BE MADE IN WRITING AND RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL COUNSELORS BY MAY 30.