Steve Newton
(1992-93)
I began my employment with LIOJ as a temporary measure to fill in for a teacher who had moved on. I received some invaluable lessons on classroom teaching from Jim Kahny and Don Maybin. My role was to assist Japanese teachers of English in junior high schools in the International Understanding (Team Teaching) Programme. I enjoyed the role, and soon found myself accepted both by the students and teachers, and involved in extracurricular activities. From this experience I gained long-term friendships.
The overall experience working for LIOJ was satisfying, and I learned about people not only of different cultures and backgrounds, but also of varying age groups. Unfortunately, the Odawara Board of Education replaced the programme with the JET Programme, and I went on to work for NOVA where teaching practises and experience fell well short of the standards of LIOJ. The experience I gained at LIOJ continues to help me as a qualified Padi dive instructor as I teach scuba divers of all ages and backgrounds.
I am presently employed as a registered property valuer, another occupation that I enjoy. I also regularly have exchange students staying with me. The last two students were from China and Taiwan. My only criticism of LIOJ is that the director was placed under immense time pressure and, in my opinion, required an assistant perhaps with a marketing focus.
I would like to finish by thanking LIOJ for the exciting experience; and Don, Jim, and my fellow teachers for all their help during that period.
February 2002
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