Guhang Elementary School in Hongseong-gun may be a small school with just 79 students, but its passion for student well-being is larger than life. Moving beyond traditional academics, the school is raising well-rounded individuals equipped with both strong character and physical health through highly innovative programs.
A feature published by Chungcheong Today highlighted how Guhang Elementary School is pouring its efforts into fostering upright character by systematically operating the MAEUM Meditation program alongside a vibrant eco-playground project. Here is how they are helping students grow into the masters of their own lives.
π‘ Finding Answers in MAEUM Meditation
The school actively utilizes meditation as the core of its character education. The MAEUM Meditation program operates on a profound yet simple acronym:
By using a meditation method to Minus (subtract) the negative mind, the original positive mind is Added and revealed to take upright Action. From an Early age, by Earnestly Understanding oneself as Unique in the world, one becomes the Master of one’s life and lives with a happy Maeum (mind).
The program is creatively integrated into Ethics, Practical Arts, and Science classes, as well as student club activities. By objectively looking back on themselves and discarding negative minds, students engage in true self-reflection.
The results have been deeply moving. Students consistently report that their minds feel completely opened up, sharing refreshing insights:
- “I have come to know myself better and feel like I have found my true self.”
- “It feels like I’ve been reborn.”
- “It feels like my mind has been cleansed after shaking off its heavy burdens.”
- “It feels like a tornado swept away my negative mind.”
π» Eco-Playground Project: ‘Friends, Let’s Play in Nature!’
A healthy mind naturally thrives in a healthy body and environment. To complement the inner work of meditation, Guhang Elementary School launched the eco-playground project, actively practicing experience-centered, eco-friendly education.
The project includes hands-on activities such as cultivating fresh vegetable gardens and acting as environmental guardians. Linked with urban agriculture revitalization, these outdoor activities act as a driving force to develop:
- Democratic citizenship
- Interpersonal skills
- Ecological sensitivity
π Realizing Human Completion Education
The synergy between these two programs is remarkable. While the MAEUM Meditation cultivates a child’s inner self properly and soundly, the eco-playground project translates that positive mindset into real-world action.
Together, these efforts serve as an incredible methodological alternative for realizing Human Completion educationβthe fundamental, ultimate goal of raising children who can live harmoniously with others and their community. By fostering the harmonious development of mind and body, Guhang Elementary School is ensuring its students will blossom as the true masters of their future.
π° About the Article
- Publication: Chungcheong Today (Chungnam Office of Education Character Education Joint Campaign)
- Article Title: Hongseong Guhang Elementary School: ‘A Clear Mind and an Upright Body…’
- Published: September 20, 2017
- Reporter: Lee Jong-hyup
