![Baoqing Sun enojys one of her hobbies, hiking with her daughter Kylee. Sun has always been greatful to her daughter for inspiring her teaching career. “My daughter [was] born, so I tried to spend more time with her [and that] led me to education,” Sun said.](https://www.chsglobe.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Sun-1200x1130.jpg)
After years of substituting, teaching and connecting with the community, Baoqing Sun is beginning her permanent role as Chinese teacher.
“My daughter actually graduated here three years ago. Before that, I was asked to [sub] here for the previous Chinese teacher. So I subbed here [for] one year, and I really enjoyed it. Since there [was a] position open for [a] Chinese teacher, I applied. I enjoy working with kids so much,” Sun said.
Growing up in China, Sun had a complicated relationship with education. Shaming, discipline and extreme stress were a few of the many reasons Sun grew to resent her teachers.
“In America, the teaching is so advanced compared to China. In Clayton, you have so [many] resources compared to other school districts. They care about your wellbeing, not only academic wise, [but] your physical [and] your emotional side. That attracts me to figure out which teaching methodology or pedagogy really works better for the youngsters,” Sun said.
Sun believes in teaching in a student centered style. In hopes to give students a pressure free learning environment, Sun will individualize her teaching.
“Because of my upbringing, I probably will be a little bit on the stricter side, but I’m not going to make you feel pressure,” Sun said. “I [will] give many chances. Let’s work together. I want to help you. I don’t know what you feel, [but] I want to help you and help you grow and succeed.”
Sun finds inspiration from ancient Chinese culture that shows in her approach to learning and personal growth.
“‘Xué ér shí xí zhī’ means lifelong learner. Especially Clayton, where I just went to the training for the new teacher induction, everybody’s constantly learning new things: new technology, new teaching methods, new everything,” Sun said.
In past teaching experiences, Sun has found certain environments and students to be disrespectful to her and her work. In contrast, she feels a strong community in Clayton, reminding her why she loves teaching.
“I feel like this school is the one school that make[s] me feel like I’m part of this community. We are supported as teachers, and in turn, we serve students to make sure [they] grow and get the most out of this education system,” Sun said. “I do not see this in any other school district at all. That makes me want to stay here.”
