For All You've Taught Us: Happy Teacher's Day to the Gardeners of our Minds
by Vũ Hoàng Lan Chi
Credits: Wellspring Saigon International Bilingual School Facebook Page
Teacher’s Day reminds us how deeply our teachers shape who we become—through knowledge, patience, and unwavering belief in their students. Today, we send our heartfelt thanks to all WSSG teachers and wish them joy and fulfillment on every journey ahead.
This year, our tribute also carries a gentle sense of farewell as we honor Mr. Kris and Mr. Louis, whose time at WSSG is coming to an end. Their presence has left lasting footprints in our community, and this article is a small way to celebrate the impact they’ve made.
As a math teacher, Mr. Kris is remembered for his clarity, calmness, and his “trademark” sarcastic humor. You’d often see him surrounded by, big or small, crowds of students whenever he is not teaching.
“My experience teaching Math at WSSG has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. The students kept me on my toes, and seeing their growth made it all worthwhile,” Mr. Kris shared. When asked about his favourite moments in Wellspring Saigon, he says: “My favorite moments are when students show genuine enthusiasm for learning. Their appreciation and excitement in class always remind me why I love teaching.”
Mr. Kris’s departure from Wellspring Saigon prompted warm tributes from colleagues and students alike. Co-worker Ms. Nhi wished him "all the best at his new job," hoping he becomes "more sociable" to connect with others. Students recalled his memorable personality: Nguyen Christine (8.1) appreciated his "very likeable sense of humor," while Luu Hai Yen (8.3) recalled the times when Mr. Kris shared his life to the class, emphasizing his desire to "enjoy connecting with students." Others, like Phan Nam Long (9.3) and Dang Minh Anh (9.7), wished him success, reminding him not to forget his "innovative, wiser students." Mr. Kris echoed this sentiment and stated that "I will miss my students the most—their energy, their kindness, and the unique bond we built together."
Sadly, Mr. Kris isn’t the only teacher who needs to say farewell to Wellspring Saigon. Mr. Louis, an LSC teacher, has been a source of care, understanding and positive energy for many WISers. Due to health problems, however, he has decided to resign from his current teaching position to take care of himself.
Mr Louis shares how he first took on the journey of being an LSC teacher: “When I first saw the job advert for LSC, I thought it was an opportunity for me to provide my students with the things that I was never taught at school. I think that the things that students learn in LSC are going to be a lot more successful in the future.” When asked about his experience with this position, he answers honestly: “My journey as an LSC teacher is like a rollercoaster. It starts very difficult because teaching LSC is not easy. I have to do a lot of research, different kinds of material. To be honest, teaching LSC is unlike any other kind of teaching I have done before.”
In spite of his health issues and the demands of teaching, Mr. Louis has been strongly supported by Wellspring Saigon. “I think that the moment that I want to share most was when I was sick and I was absent for three days. And when I came back, I was really surprised that students really wanted me to return.”
Mr. Louis is consistently described by colleagues and students as an exceptionally caring, active, and kind teacher who always puts his students first and is deeply passionate about his work. UCC teacher Ms. Huyen notes his visible care for those around him, while AC teacher Ms. Quynh emphasizes his dedication to doing "everything for his students." Students highly value his guidance; Rin An (9.5) praised him for teaching them to be friendly, wise, and insightful, and Thanh (9.5) appreciated his ability to help her align her values with her academic goals thanks to his patient and kind approach. Furthermore, Rossie (7.4) highlights his lively teaching style, which uses engaging, real-life stories to make subjects more captivating, while SEL teacher Mr. Khoi fondly recalls his sociability, sharing a pleasant memory of talking and playing board games with Mr. Louis during a company trip.
On behalf of all WISers, we extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Kris and Mr. Louis. Their dedication and kindness have shaped lasting memories and growth within our community. Though they may be leaving, their legacy at Wellspring Saigon will remain.
To all teachers: Thank you, and Happy Teacher’s Day. May the future bring you all the joy you have brought to us.
