Bon voyage, Kristan Julius! The teacher of American elementary school with a passion for education and 24 years worth of memories in Jakarta
I'm from the US, but I'm alive and teaching internationally in the former Yugoslavia, Israel, England and Indonesia for most of my adult life.
How long have you been a resident of Jakarta?
24 wonderful years!
In your opinion, how Indonesia changed since your arrival? Would you say that the changes have been more on the positive or negative side?
I saw a lot of the recent history of Indonesia firsthand- the 90s in particular were a period of major transitions here politically, and of course the rise super shopping centers continued. When I arrived, there were not so many bikes, but becaks, bajajs and kaki limas filled the spaces between the cars also create Macet. The availability of imported products has increased, and so have prices. 
If you could choose three things you like most about Jakarta, what would it be?
First would be the people- there are no more generous people -hearted worldwide. I learned so much about how to live a life full of you. Second, Jakarta animated chaotic lifestyle it is a night city and party town. As the expatriate community and our lovely hosts know how to have fun! And last but not least, Jakarta International School- especially Pattimura ... it was the most wonderful place to work with talented colleagues and the best imaginable young. They give me great hope for the future.
When I was 11 and 12, I was running a "summer camp" for neighborhood children and my parents were convinced that I would become a teacher. I come from a long line of educators - my grandfather was the head of secondary education department at Teacher's College, Columbia University, my father, a school renowned head in many districts in southern Connecticut and New York, while now my brother is the head of school friends in Atlanta, Georgia, and my sister and my brother taught at the University of Virginia. However, I decided to pursue literature at university. Only after several years of relatively uninteresting job I go back to school to get certified to teach.
And
I taught first, second, third, fourth and fifth categories, as well as writing and history during which class do you teach? for students in middle and high school. Fourth year was my most recent level and my favorite. fourth graders have such integrity and they are enthusiastic about everything!
What is the most important quality to have a teacher?
I really think MEET students as particular individuals, and learn to know them is essential to be their best teacher. You may have advanced training in your area and well-prepared lessons, but without a personal connection, a passionate interest in each child and a focus on making meaningful and fun learning every day, students reach their high potential. You need patience and a sense of humor, and be open to change. A good teacher encourages her students to follow their own passions, and offers many opportunities to learn from successes and failures in a safe environment.
So tell us, what is the best thing about teaching? Outside the holiday, of course!
The holidays are absolutely necessary to recharge during and after an energetic school year, but the best part of teaching for me has always been to be a part of life and learning experiences of our amazing children. It is fun to go to school every day and spend time with young people curious. I learn something every day too. And I love that many of my former students keep in contact with me; it is so much easier now with . I love learning their adult lives, their fields of study and professions and see pictures of their own children. Even today, a former student who is now 4J Pattimura 26 is stopping by!
You recently had a farewell party for Eastern Promise and judging by the turnout, you are very well liked! How long have you taught at JIS, and why did you decide to leave?
I had my own "Graduation" party in Parliament, with nearly 200 members of my community Jakarta last month. It was wonderful to see so many friends in one place! After 24 years at JIS, my husband, Uwe and I will be living in Düsseldorf, Germany, where he accepted a consulting firm. I plan to write full time and hope to develop an educational board of my own which brings us back to this part of the world often, if not to stay.
It must be pretty hard to leave after 24 years, will you miss the most to teach JIS?
all- students, my amazing colleagues, football and rugby IASAS, the beloved tree Pattimura - I'll miss everything