I totally agree with the last few letters to the ajarn Postbox. Some of the situations they wrote about have happened to good friends of mine and myself. At this moment in time, I find myself teaching in a small town close to Nakhonsawan. I've been teaching here for four months and at first I thought I wouldn't last because the town is small and very rural. It soon became apparent to me, that the students in the school were the best I've taught. And the Thai teachers were also the best I've had the pleasure of teaching with. Can I just add, I've taught in nine schools here in Thailand and the problems mentioned in the last few posts, happened in 90% of those schools.

Then out of the blue I land a job in the middle of nowhere, expecting the worst case scenario, as usual. Only to find it as normal as it can get in a Thai school with Thai teachers that are pretty normal and students that want to learn most of the time. I'm not saying it's totally great here but it's 100% better than any of the other schools I've been in. They have asked me to stay and teach here for several years. And to be honest I think I will. I am under no illusion, I know Thais can turn on a sixpence but I'm hoping I can enjoy a good few years teaching here. However, don't be surprised if you read a post from me in six months saying the opposite. lol.

Dear Russell, congratulations on finding a very good school to work at. I agree with you that your opinion of your current school may change later because you're in the 'honeymoon stage.' However, I sincerely hope that you continue to enjoy a pleasant working environment. Unfortunately, I can't write any positive statements about my government (MEP) school. But writing about my situation would be appropriate for another posting, and not in this one. Still, it's nice to hear good news once in a while. Best of luck to you. Jim

Mr. Russell Park