Student with a “Golden Mouth” becomes a teacher

One of five recipients of the President’s Award for Teachers this year, Miss Wendy Wong shares on her rewarding work as an educator. The award recognises caring and nurturing teachers dedicated to the holistic development of students.

---

As a student, Miss Wendy Wong was nicknamed the “Golden Mouth”, which was inspired by the Chinese phrase “????”, referring to one who is shy and unwilling to speak up. She would never have imagined becoming a teacher today – one who could motivate students and inspire confidence in them.

Speaking up was a life lesson taught to Miss Wong by her own teachers back in school. They coaxed her out of her shell, took time to help her discover her strengths and encouraged her to take up leadership opportunities. Inspired by their care, Miss Wong chose to make the same commitment to nurturing students and has dedicated the past 17 years of her life to teaching.

In recognition of her inspiring example and contribution, Miss Wendy Wong was one of the five recipients of the President’s Award for Teachers 2014.

“Miss Wong is not only my Math teacher, but my friend and big sister,” said Cassie, one of her ex-students who used to fall asleep in class as she was disinterested in her studies back then.

On one such occasion, Miss Wong walked up to Cassie’s desk and talked to her. Instead of a scolding, Miss Wong told Cassie how much she wanted to see her succeed in life. From that day, she noticed a change in Cassie’s behaviour and attitude for the better.

“We may not get to choose our students, but we can choose how we could best nurture them,” said Miss Wong, currently a Senior Teacher of Mathematics at Geylang Methodist School (Secondary).

A decade after losing contact with an ex-student, Jane, Miss Wong received a message from her. In the message, Jane expressed her gratitude for the steadfast care and guidance Miss Wong had given to her at the lowest point in her life. She had even thought of hurting herself back then. But it was the constant counselling of Miss Wong, then her Girls’ Brigade teacher-in-charge, which made all the difference.

“These testimonies remind me that I should never give up on any of my students,” said Miss Wong.

 
Are there teachers who have made an impact in your life? Share them with us in the comment box below!

Read the other inspiring stories of winners and finalists of the President Award for Teachers.