Hualien school custodian honored by MOE

2015-05-08

A 30-year custodian at Hualien County’s Jiamin Elementary School was recently commended by the Ministry of Education for tireless commitment and dedication in the workplace.

Chen Mei-hui, one of 30 recipients in the primary education category of this year’s awards, is considered a vital part of the eastern Taiwan school. Since taking up her duties at age 25, she has lovingly cared for the grounds, cooked meals and tended various needs of the pupils.

“Chen is more than a custodian,” Jiamin Principal Lin Bi-xia said. “She is a teacher to us all, picking up certificates for bartending and culinary practices along the way, as well as a tertiary education degree at age 45.”

According to Lin, when the school was in dire need of an instructor in indigenous Truku weaving four years ago, Chen volunteered. Although not originally from the tribe, she mastered the traditional craft through decades of learning and practicing.

“After two months of tireless efforts, Chen designed a rainbow-hued sash based on the Truku myth of the celestial bridge,” Lin said, adding that every Jiamin student prides themselves on carrying the county’s only rainbow-embroidered school bag.

Chen, who is as humble as she is dilligent, said it was her responsibility to pass on Truku culture. “The success of the program warms my heart and I am glad I can contribute to the school over and above my custodian duties.”

Attributing her achievement to the support of Jiamin’s staff and faculty, Chen said she plans to find further use for her many talents and start a cooking class for the students and teachers. “Caring for the school and its student treasures is one of the greatest joys in my life.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=230136&ctNode=413)