Day Eight

Day Eight: Palace, Elementary School Visit and Closing Ceremonies.

The National Palace is right in the middle of Seoul. It has been restored to its former grandeur.
	As one drives by the contrast from the old to the new provides wonderful texture to the sights and sounds of Seoul.
School children visit the compound which was both a government center and Royal Residence. They learn their rich history by seeing first hand the place where so many momentous events happened.
	This royal pond was built to enhance the grounds an provide a place for physical training of the solders
This is the restored throne room of the King of Korea. The floors had fires built under them to keep the ministers and the King warm during the cold Korean winters.
	Our last school visit was to an elementary school. This is the flower covered entrance to the school. We were honored to visit this K-6 school well known for its rigorous academics and its outstanding sports program.
Each student has their inside sandals to wear inside school.
	Korean cultural traditions like tea ceremonies and traditional ways to dress are now being taught in school. Angela, from an elementary school in England, could not resist the magic of the moment.
Classrooms in in Korea look pretty much like classrooms in the United States. Class size runs form 40 to 50 students.
	The office of principal is recognized as a very prestigious position. This is the principals office /conference room.
The school's Karate program is known around the world. Students as young as the second grade performed for us during our visit.
	Many heads of state including Presidents of the United States and Queen of England have enjoyed their performances.
The mandatory group photo is one to remember We wondered how many future Olympians ar in this photo with us.
	Usha, a district Superintendent from Canada, being forever curious wanted to know what made some the boards go POP!
Usha, once finding out how it worked, had to try it. Yes it went bang!
	The Korean students were very happy to receive the gifts that we presented to them after their performance.
Monday evening we met for our farewell dinner. Dignitaries from The National Institute for International Education Development and and the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development for the Republic of Korea were present.
	With Jung Hae translating recognitions and thank you's were given by various members of our group.
Then Usha presented the photo of our group which is truly a remembrance of the many good things that we learned.
	Stanley highlighted many of the memorable events that highlighted our visited in the true style and humor of a New Yorker.