The story of the principal asking to change November 20 flowers into school supplies is a way to invite those who are shouldering the responsibility of education, managers and teachers to move towards the spirit of serving students.
Mr. Le Hong Thai, principal of Phan Van Tri Primary School, during a teacher training session - Photo: school fanpage
As Vietnam Teachers' Day approaches on November 20, many parents, including students, are quite worried and busy with preparing delicate and meaningful bouquets and gifts to express their gratitude to their teachers.
Exchange November 20 flowers into practical items
In contrast to that concern, the principal of Phan Van Tri Primary School (District 1, Ho Chi Minh City) wrote an open letter stating that instead of giving flowers on November 20, he would like to ask parents, philanthropists, and businesses to exchange notebooks, milk, and sports equipment for the school to reward students.
At the beginning of the letter, Mr. Le Hong Thai wrote: "Every year, on Vietnamese Teachers' Day, November 20, the school receives many congratulatory flower baskets. However, these flowers are only used for a few days and then thrown away, which is a waste.
The school hopes to receive practical support and sharing, directly assisting the children in training their mind, body and aesthetics, and encouraging them to confidently participate in useful playgrounds.
Every contribution, big or small, is a source of motivation for the school and students in their journey of developing knowledge and personality."
Please change congratulatory bouquets into practical items such as milk and notebooks as proof of love and care for students.
By refusing wasteful gifts, he puts the students' interests first by prioritizing gifts that can be used directly, supporting the students' learning and physical development.
Mr. Thai expressed his wish to have more lasting gifts of gratitude.
Please exchange flowers for items and teaching aids not only remind students to be aware of saving but also send a valuable message to colleagues about the need to use resources reasonably and avoid waste.
In the context of modern society, material needs are increasing, suggesting to everyone, especially students, to appreciate simple but practical things is extremely necessary.
The bright flower baskets will quickly fade after the anniversary.
New equipment and books become the motivation to help students feel the care from the community and the sharing from those around them.
If enthusiastically responded, in addition to useful items, Mr. Thai's work will certainly also receive the spirit of desire to build a happy school - where students are nurtured and developed comprehensively in terms of physical, intellectual and spiritual aspects with the hearts of teachers and the whole community.
Notebooks or milk boxes will become rewards to encourage children's efforts in studying, creating "joy in going to school".
Dare to abandon the "habit" or tradition of giving flowers and gifts on November 20, teacher Le Hong Thai also mentioned the meaning of the charter of the teaching profession.
One of the meanings often mentioned is innovation. As someone once said: "The purpose of education is to replace an empty mind with an open mind."
Showing gratitude to teachers does not require expensive gifts. It is simply a practical contribution to support the school in supporting students on their learning journey.
Sparkling Light
But will Mr. Le Hong Thai's actions eventually pass off as a spontaneous action?
We certainly have not forgotten the fresh story that happened at the beginning of this school year. While public opinion was "hot" about school fees and class funds, we received a breath of fresh air from Mr. Nguyen Van Cong - principal of Hoa Phu Primary School (Thu Dau Mot City, Binh Duong).
He announced that no fees would be collected other than the mandatory cleaning fee for school students.
That cool breeze from Binh Duong immediately "blew" to Ho Chi Minh City.
Many people left the parent-teacher meeting at Vo Truong Toan Primary School (District 10) with happy faces because for the first time the school announced that it would not collect any funds.
Similarly, changing November 20 flowers into school supplies is a way to invite those who are shouldering the responsibility of education, from managers to teachers, to increasingly focus on the spirit of serving students.
In order to not stop at a single action, educational agencies and organizations need to have specific moves to encourage individuals and groups in the industry to spread the spirit of Mr. Thai and Mr. Cong.
Such actions not only beautify the image of teachers but also inspire society to join hands and support the building of a happy, economical and sustainable education.
Furthermore, if this story is mentioned many times, not only in the education sector but also in other fields, the actions of Mr. Cong and Mr. Thai will not be just a flash in the pan.
It will become a lasting inspirational light for those who carry responsibility and love for the young generation.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/xin-doi-hoa-20-11-thanh-tap-sua-cho-hoc-sinh-va-thong-diep-doi-moi-cua-thay-hieu-truong-20241114090532854.htm
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