High school teacher selected for summer fellowship in South Korea

April 6, 2009 – Taekwondo lessons ignited Clayton A. Bouton High School teacher Anne Lyons’ interest in Korean history.

“I became really fascinated with the history of Korean martial arts,” said Lyons. “That eventually led to my interest in identifying how Korean culture is unique—apart from its relationship with China and Japan.”

This summer, Lyons will gain first-hand experience with the country’s culture and history during a 17-day fellowship to Seoul, South Korea.

She was one of only 20 teachers selected nationwide to participate in the trip, which is sponsored by the Korea Society.

“I’m really excited to go,” said Lyons, who is starting to learn basics of the Korean language in preparation for her trip.

While traveling extensively throughout the country, Lyons plans to establish a network with a Seoul high school in hopes of video conferencing with them next year during her Advanced Placement World History and Global History II classes.

“There is no doubt that our students will benefit directly from her participation in this wonderful opportunity,” said Social Studies Department Chair Tom Gladd. “In addition to gaining first-hand experience with Korean culture and history, as part of the program Anne will create several lesson plans based on her experience and studies.”

Lyons will leave for her trip at the end of the school year.