When China’s demand for English teachers surged in the 1990s, Charles Schreur didn’t hesitate. He’d been fascinated by China since his teens. So in the summer of 1990, he, his wife, and children packed up and moved. He’s never looked back since.

Having been part of TIS for over 30 years, he’s only seen the school grow. “From the 30 some students in 1990 to a sought-after educational option with well over 400 students was an immense change!” he says.

During Schreur’s time at TIS, he’s been a teacher, photographer, yearbook manager, and more. He’s worn many hats, yet teaching is undoubtedly what brings him the most joy. “That is when you not just transfer specific bits of knowledge or teach a skill, but instill ideas and shape character,” he says. “That is an intensely personal process in which teachers give something of themselves. Doing it well is what can be called ‘the art and heart of teaching.’“

For Schreur, the standout memory in all his decades here was a Spring Trip hosted with a group of ninth graders in Yunnan, where they visited a leper colony.

The students were so brave! They reached out to them, touched them, and we even had a meal there,” he says. “Compassion in action! And we listened to one of the people in the colony share his life story, embodying true joy and gratitude.”