Dunhuang City Suzhou Wuweimiao Yu-Lang Hope Elementary School
Date of Visit: September 28, 2012
Purpose of Visit: Revisit
Grades: K1-K3, 1-6 (9 classes total)
The school’s principal is a man of literature and the arts (whose expertise is in calligraphy and traditional Chinese painting), and the students show an adeptness in these disciplines. During our visit, the fifth-graders put on a special performance that included singing a song in English and a short English skit. Students also drew pictures and wrote letters to TDF’s chief officer “Grandpa Shih [石爺爺]”. The school’s facilities and needs are pretty much complete. All they need is to hire English teachers, which will be done through the education bureau.
Students
No. of Students: 321 (257 elementary + 64 kindergarten; no boarding)
Students are hardworking. 100% graduate on to junior high in Mengjiaqiao Township (local township).
Teachers
No. of Teachers: 12
Teachers are enthusiastic and dedicated to their work. Their performance is excellent, having won Dunhuang City’s exemplary group away two years in a row. The principal was also honored with two Gansu Province exemplary group awards this year.
Buildings/Facilities
– 9 classrooms
– 6 multipurpose rooms
– Library: 5,632 books
– Computer Room: 31 computers
– Cafeteria: only enough space for teachers’ use
– Restrooms: 60 squat toilets
Problems/Issues
In need of projectors and copiers. Need to hire two English teachers.