Tim Emmons is a proud Californian. After university he found a passion for traveling and eventually landed in Korea where he worked for two years. Tim received his Bachelors of Arts in English, Masters in Education, and teaching certification in California and began his teaching career in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2017, he took the opportunity to return to Korea and join Dwight where he has served in many roles (English B teacher, head of department, English A teacher, basketball coach).
What is your role at Dwight School Seoul?
I am an Upper School English Language and Literature teacher for Grades 7, 8, 9, and 11. I also coach basketball.
What made you decide to work in an education setting? And what is your philosophy?
I’ve always enjoyed discussing literature and world issues with young people. I’m constantly surprised and inspired by their unique perspectives. As a teacher and coach I want to impart the idea that none of us are finished products. Learning is a process and we all have the capacity to improve through effort and time.
What do you like the most about working at DSS?
My students and colleagues at Dwight are exceptional. We have created a caring and fun community here.
What are your interests and or hobbies?
I’m drawn to athletics and outdoor activities. My passion for athletics started with basketball and baseball, but I’m always interested in trying a new sport.
Who inspires you and how?
My wife is such an inspiration. She is thoughtful and selfless in a way that challenges me to be better. My son inspires me to stop and enjoy small and quiet moments in life. When we play outside, he is always inviting me to sit and examine a bug on the ground or enter his imaginary world.
What is the best book or production that you have read, watched, or listened to lately?
I’m currently reading a book called Crying in H Mart. This memoir chronicles the experience of a Korean-American girl as she grows up and grapples with two identities. It is great to have another window into Korean culture and the complex feelings that some of our students experience regarding identity.
What global challenge would you like to see tackled and how do you see yourself contributing to the positive change that you desire?
At Dwight I genuinely feel that I am teaching some of our future world leaders. At the moment, I feel that the world needs more leaders that are able and willing to experience perspectives different from their own. As a teacher and through the Language and Literature curriculum I hope to show students a window into new worlds and communities. I’ve always felt that literature can help us build knowledge and empathy through gained perspective.
What is one fun fact about you that others may not know or may surprise them?
I play guitar and I’ve been known to sing from time to time. My karaoke song is “Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston.
Why would you tell a prospective family to choose DSS?
Dwight is full of supportive students and staff. We have created an inviting atmosphere that is conducive to inquiry and learning.
