Whispers of tradition and the zeal for learning linger in the air around Nam-Seoul Middle School. Education in Korea has deep roots. It was not always accessible to everyone. Less than 20 percent of Koreans had formal education before 1945. The modern system is based on a 1968 charter. This charter says education is important for citizenship. It defines the government’s role to give all Korean children access to education.
Nam-Seoul Middle School stands as a testament to South Korea’s emphasis on secondary education. The secondary school graduation rate is high. In 2014 it was 93 percent. This was significantly higher than the U.S.’s 77 percent. Almost all middle school graduates advance to high school in South Korea.
Historically Koreans believed society’s leaders should be the most educated. During the Chosun Dynasty having children pass the civil service exam was seen as a path to success. Families invested heavily in education. Wealthier families splurged on special tutors.
Nam-Seoul Middle School helps middle schoolers grow. Middle school education is compulsory for students aged 12 to 15. Not all students receive free education. Free middle school began in 1985 in farming and fishing areas. It is gradually expanding nationwide. The middle school enrollment rate reached almost 100 percent in 1994. This high rate is due to the policy of dropping entrance exams in 1969.
The curriculum at Nam-Seoul Middle School consists of required subjects electives and extracurricular activities. Required courses include Korean language math social studies and science. Students also study physical education music fine arts and English. Since 1995 native speakers have been hired to teach English in middle schools. This effort enhances English acquisition. It also prepares students for globalization.
Once entrance exams determined elite status. Admission to top-ranked middle schools guaranteed a person’s worth. Even decades after abolishing the middle school entrance exam an older person’s worth was measured by the school they attended. Nam-Seoul Middle School plays a vital role in shaping young minds. It helps prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
High schools in South Korea are divided into academic and vocational schools. Common compulsory courses are ethics Korean language and literature. Students also study basic mathematics social studies history and basic science. They also take physical education music fine arts and English. In 1995 62 percent of students were in academic high schools. 38 percent were in vocational high schools. Some attend specialized high schools. These schools focus on science the arts and foreign languages.
As we stand before Nam-Seoul Middle School remember the importance of education in Korean society. It is rooted in tradition and a deep desire for progress. Nam-Seoul Middle School continues to shape the leaders of tomorrow.