Whenever issues like school violence or bullying make headlines, public demand for effective character education skyrockets. But how should we actually approach teaching youth to be kind, resilient, and focused?
An inspiring interview published by Gukje News highlights a teacher who found the ultimate answer. Teacher Lee Oh-nam of Guhang Elementary School has been successfully integrating mind subtraction meditation into her curriculum since 2009. Her groundbreaking work earned her the Best Curriculum School Commendation and widespread attention from academic circles.
Here is a look at her incredible journey and the profound changes she witnessed in her students.
π Integrating Meditation into the Classroom
Instead of treating character education as an afterthought, Teacher Lee made it a core part of the school day. She conducts convergent classes that weave meditation into subjects like Korean Language, Social Studies, and Ethics. It is also utilized during creative experiential learning, within a dedicated meditation club, and as a powerful tool for student counseling.
What exactly do the children do? Teacher Lee explains that children actually harbor a lot of negative mindsβanxiety about being scolded, fear of doing poorly on tests, or feelings of disliking a peer. During the meditation class, students are gently guided to identify and systematically discard these negative emotional burdens.
π Healing from the Inside Out
The students’ reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Even after short sessions, children report feeling refreshed and happy, often calling meditation the best part of their semester.
From a character education perspective, the changes are remarkable. Peer relationships improve, learning attitudes shift, and students become noticeably calmer and more diligent. But perhaps the most profound testament to the program is the story of one specific student:
“There was a senior student who bullied weaker kids and used violence without showing any remorse. I called him separately and had him meditate. It turned out he had grown up in a violent environment and had many memories of being abused himself. I had him consistently discard those minds for about six months. One day, he said, ‘My mind feels clean. I feel like I’ve been reborn.’ Now, he is considerate of his friends and gets along very well.”
π The True Meaning of Education
Teacher Lee’s passion for this method was sparked when she struggled to find ways to build her students’ confidence and shift their mindsets from “I can’t do it” to positive action.
After participating in a job training program for teachers, she experienced a profound realization: true education is about bringing out what is already inside.
Modern education looks beyond mere knowledge; it emphasizes self-management, creative thinking, conflict resolution, and community spirit. By teaching children to independently reflect upon and empty their minds, these crucial areas are fulfilled, allowing them to grow into genuinely happy individuals toward true Human Completion.
Want to help your child navigate school and life with confidence and a positive mind? Santa Clara Meditation offers programs specifically designed to support students and families. Call us today at 408-615-0435 to learn more about how mind subtraction can transform your child’s future.
π° About the Article
- Publication: Gukje News (International News)
- Article Title: [Interview] Teacher Lee Oh-nam, Who Integrated Meditation into the Elementary School Curriculum
- Published: July 6, 2018
- Reporter: Kim Min-jae
