-Melha Hadjabed-Woods, Cleveland Heights-University Heights High School

“Dr. Lin doesn't just impart knowledge; she builds an environment where students feel supported, valued, and inspired to master a new language and culture.”

-Melha Hadjabed-Woods

Shu Hui Lin of Cleveland Heights High School should be honored for her dedication to deep learning and her profound impact she has had on her students through her Mandarin Chinese language classes. As a fellow educator, I can say that Dr. Lin embodies the true essence of teaching with an unwavering commitment to nurturing every aspect of her students' growth and learning journey. 

Dr. Lin's approach to teaching goes beyond the curriculum. She creates an atmosphere that fosters comprehensive learning and mastery. She doesn't just impart knowledge; she builds an environment where students feel supported, valued, and inspired to master a new language and culture. Additionally, what sets Dr. Lin apart is her ability to design experiences that go beyond the textbooks. She allows students to engage with the language on multiple levels, fostering a deeper understanding that extends far beyond the classroom walls. 

One shining example of Dr. Lin's dedication is the annual Lunar New Year celebration, a cornerstone event at Cleveland Heights-University Heights High since 2017. The Culture Project allows students to explore various aspects of Chinese culture, showcasing festivals, art, medicine, architecture, fashion, Taoism, and inventions. Led by Chinese students, the Cultural Showcase features engaging activities such as calligraphy, a chopsticks contest, dragon coloring, a Boba tea stall, and red envelope greetings. Students wear Cheongsams for a fashion show, perform traditional songs, discuss the Zodiac, create calligraphy banners, and paint lion heads. Dr. Lin's event has become a cherished tradition that unites students, teachers, and the wider community in a celebration of cultural diversity and learning. 

Dr. Lin's impact goes beyond the grandeur of special events. In her day-to-day teaching, she consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of her students' needs, using various teaching strategies to ensure everyone grasps the material. Whether through thought-provoking discussions, data-driven assessments, or constructive feedback, Dr. Lin empowers her students to take ownership of their learning journey, fostering a sense of agency and independence that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

It's clear that Lin's teaching philosophy isn't just about teaching from a textbook; it's about nurturing the whole child and instilling a lifelong love of learning. Her dedication, creativity, and genuine care for her students shine through in everything she does, earning her the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues alike.

Teachers Honor Teachers

The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation launched a new program in 2022 inviting teachers to recognize a colleague they know is doing exceptional work in the classroom.

In the above post, Melha Hadjabed-Woods expresses her admiration for fellow teacher, Shu Hui Lin. Thank you to both educators for your dedication to students and for taking the time to showcase what it means to deliver challenging, innovative, and student-centered lessons that result in powerful and deep learning.

Through the Teachers Honor Teachers Program, The Foundation is seeking Ohio public school teachers to share great things about a teaching colleague in an Ohio public school that ensures deep learning for students. If we choose to post your story, we will award $500 toward that teacher's classroom for their great work and $500 toward your classroom for honoring their excellence. Apply here.