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SHOWBIZ> Theater & Arts
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Guitar-toting director in tune with students
(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-12-18 09:31 "I well remember the 1997 Asian Economic Crisis because it seriously affected enrollment in Asian schools," he says. "So far, though, we have only heard of families being relocated or sent home. Like other schools, we're developing contingency plans in case we see a drop in enrollments over the coming year." Landau, who arrived in Beijing this summer, looks just like any other ordinary 56-year-old expat but his occupation is betrayed by his tie, which features colorful patterns of children. "Designed by children, the tie comes from the 'Save the Children' foundation. I've got a lot of them at home," he explains with a smile. No luxurious desk and no spacious room. Visiting Landau's office is like entering a world of miniature elephants - about 100 of them are dotted around the room, on the table, bookshelves and window ledge. Even the mugs and tea table have elephant patterns. "The first gift I ever had was a little stuffed elephant. I have kept it until now," he reveals. The reason he displays his collection is "the office is an extension not only of the school, but also of my personality, and it should be interesting", he declares. He is also a music lover.
A guitar near his desk calms his nerves at stressful moments and helps him interact with students in the school's secret garden. "From the start I was worried my students would not know who I was," he says. Besides welcoming students at the gate every morning, he goes into the classrooms, talking to students and teachers, to be as involved with the school as possible. Landau believes schools can no longer rely on traditional methods to succeed and that teaching children from textbooks alone is not enough. "We are facing economic, social and environmental challenges," he says. "Therefore, our students should be more creative and learn skills in how to solve problems." |
