Walking into my classroom this year felt like coming home. Last year I carried uncertainty and fear, but this time, most of my students greeted me like old friends. I’ve even developed close friendships with fellow teachers, and the students are no longer scared of me. For the first time, I feel like I belong here too.

On the first day, I taught everyone a simple sentence: “I like…” From “I like milk tea” to “I like Golden by Huntrix,” I had strips of colored tape already on the floor for different choices. The students lined up to show what they liked. It looked like a game, but really it was my way of teaching routines like lining up, going back to their seats, walking in place, while adding fun to it.

Some went straight for Taiwanese favorites like dumplings and milk tea, while others surprised me with their pop culture picks. KPOP Demon Hunters is apparently bigger than “APT” this year, and my students were quick to tell me so. These small moments reminded me how much joy there is in hearing what matters to them.

The best part of the week was the laughter. It filled the room and made everything feel light. I’m also thankful for my new co-teacher, Teacher Miriam, who brings so much strength in classroom management. She’s a wonderful addition to the teaching team, and I’m glad the students get to learn from her.

This year I also have my own classroom. I decorated it with reminders about growth mindset and small notes that tell students they matter. There’s almost no Chinese print in the room—just English, creativity, and color. My bulletin board is made from recycled worksheets and an old bedsheet, which might not look fancy, but it feels true to me.

As the year begins, my hope is simple: that this classroom will be a place where mistakes are okay, where curiosity is welcome, and where using English feels safe. A place where my students belong—and so do I.

Until next time, from my classroom to yours!