FOREIGN ENGLISH

A Message from the President 

Back in 2005 after working in Siheung for a number of months I had brought up the idea of creating a position known as the Foreign Language Liaison. This position would work with the Siheung Office of Education and Siheung City Hall in the planning and execution of events and curriculum development for English education within the Elementary schools. I had submitted a number of proposals and memos outlining the rationale for the creation of such a position and what it could possibly achieve. At that time there were approximately 6 foreign teachers city-wide working at the Elementary level.

In 2006 & 2007 the numbers greatly increased and Siheung had asked me to become more involved. Siheung and the President of the Korean English Teachers’ Association asked me to prepare a few guides and forms to aid the foreigners coming to Korea and try to improve the retention rates of the teachers.

In 2006 the total number of foreign teacher had double from 2005, and in 2007 we saw another increase in the number of teachers working in English education. In 2007 and early 2008 it became clear that a simple liaison position would not be enough, and that to increase retention and overall satisfaction in the workplace, an Association would need to be created.

To be able to offer more services, more training, and better communication between foreigners we would have to have a few people to share the work load and to offer other insight and perspectives. The best way to organize such a group of people is through the creation of an Association.

Early in 2008 I was again asked to continue my role as President of the Siheung Foreign English Teachers’ Association and I agreed knowing that the only way I could function properly is if we worked together collectively.

After many weeks and months debate, planning, and consideration, I came up with the notion of birthing such an organization. A collective that would work together to promote English education, workplace comfort, and ease the transition to Korea.