Teaching for over 15 years across South Korea, Vietnam, and the United States has shaped Ama’s philosophy and deepened his understanding of how children learn best. Each context offered unique lessons. South Korea taught him the importance of structure, consistency, and maintaining high expectations. Vietnam inspired his appreciation for inquiry, creativity, and community-based learning. The United States helped refine his practice in differentiation, trauma-informed approaches, and building safe, student-centered classrooms.
Across all settings, one truth remains consistent for Ama, that children thrive when they feel seen, supported, and valued. These experiences have strengthened his belief in an inclusive, inquiry-driven, globally minded approach that honors each child’s background while nurturing curiosity and lifelong learning
Ama’s Journey into Education
Coming from a family rooted in both construction and education, Ama initially followed the construction path and earned a degree in architecture. Everything changed when he spent what was meant to be a single year teaching abroad in South Korea. That one year turned into a lifelong career. Working with young learners each day showed him how naturally curious, creative, and capable children are when they’re given the right environment to explore, question, and grow. Their enthusiasm, humor, and resilience were contagious. Through those students, Ama discovered how powerful education can be in shaping confidence, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning, and he realized that teaching was his true calling.
Personalized Learning Philosophy
For Ama, personalized learning begins with truly knowing each learner, understanding their strengths, interests, cultural backgrounds, and areas for growth. Through ongoing formative assessment, intentional observation, and strong relationships, he designs learning experiences that are meaningful, challenging, and connected to students’ real lives. In practice, this includes offering student choice in how they explore concepts and show their understanding; differentiating instruction through small groups and targeted support; integrating hands-on, inquiry-based activities to support diverse learning styles; and encouraging students to reflect, monitor their progress, and set personal learning goals.
By creating a classroom culture that values voice, choice, and reflection, Ama ensures that every child feels empowered, capable, and responsible for their own learning journey.
Professional Vision
Ama’s experiences across countries, cultures, and educational systems continue to strengthen his commitment to inquiry-based, inclusive, and globally minded teaching, where every child is encouraged to ignite their spark of genius and grow into a confident learner and compassionate global citizen.
