Coffee Breaks: The Exodus

Exit

This banner will be a familiar sight for the next few years as teachers are slowly but surely leaving the school. This can only mean that it is a maturing school with matured staff and the stage is now set for some to exit. As a matter of fact, right from this day 8 more are retiring before my turn arrives. By 2020, the school would be replaced by at least 30 young and energetic ones.

As a saying goes; old teachers never die; they just grade away.

Madam Fong Way Chan, a pioneer of the school first made her debut in September 1994. That's a service of 16 years + in Seafield. A calm and cool character, she is never alarmed at the challenges given her. She takes the bull by its horn and in whatever capacity she's in, she does it well. The Chinese calls it " got head, got tail " to connote a job well done. So, she reiterated that the school had given her a good stay and she enjoyed serving it under the headship of Madam Teh. To the hundreds of children whom she had taught, she remembers them in fondness and continues to wish the best for her present cohort of students. A business administration and commerce teacher, she is careful with her finances as she sews her own clothes and help colleagues in home decor. She is a loving wife and a devoted mother to 4 children and together, they make one happy family. She is like the wife and mother in the book of Proverbs, an envy to many.

The man behind the Annual Sports, Tuan Haji Zaharudin, was the first Sports Secretary and drew great effort to set the stage for the annual event. A specialist in Bahasa Melayu, he is much sought after for his knowledge. Haji Zaha recalled the wonderful working moments in school and is especially grateful as his son, Aidi received excellent guidance under the tutelage of dedicated teachers. Today Aidi is almost completing his medical degree. Emotional and touched as he recalled the days of old, he broke down several times in fond reminiscence. He tells me that he really wants to take a break and be away from the usual regime...however, the trouble with retirement is that you never get a day off...true?

The Happy Birthday cut for the old girl and man...58.

A powerful rendition by this young lass...Hero. I still cannot believe she is 15. Her song was superbly delivered.

This group of Form 6s rendering a song composed by the busy Soo Yin goes like this....da da da Puan Fong.... da da da Puan Fong ! Sweetly sung, they expressed their gratitude and fondness for their teacher. Oh...what are they going to do without her? Go to her for tuition la.

By special request, Jit Ji must perform again. His fingering on the keyboard had many gabs opened in awe. I think he can pass off as the best pianist that has ever played in the history of the school. Fanstastic. Good attitude in dress code.