Nathan Pelton, an English teacher from the United States. [Photo/WeChat account: snd-szgxqfb]
Nathan Pelton, an English teacher from the United States who works at the Suzhou Foreign Language School, said he took a liking to Suzhou New District the first time he visited in 2008, local media outlets reported.
He moved to SND with his family and has lived there ever since.
"I used to visit Shanghai to enjoy my favorite Western dishes, but now I can satisfy this need by just taking a short walk from my home in SND," Pelton said.
"During my initial days in SND, I thought Mudu ancient town and Xushuguan were far away, but now, with the convenient and efficient transportation system, I can get to these places easily."
Pelton teaches at the Suzhou Foreign Language School. [Photo/WeChat account: snd-szgxqfb]
In addition to introducing novel educational ideas and innovative courses to his school, Pelton has also been participating in public welfare activities for years. He encourages his students to hold volunteer classes at migrant schools and has lobbied local foreign-owned companies to set up targeted scholarships for migrant students. He also established cooperative ties with five local migrant schools, helping over 400 students.
Pelton also does his best to help students across China from impoverished families. For example, he led a team of students and teachers from his school to offer volunteer teaching services to remote areas in Southwest China's Yunnan province.
In 2017, Pelton was awarded the title of Honorary Citizen of Suzhou, and two years later, he was awarded the Jiangsu Friendship Award, the highest award issued by the Jiangsu government to foreigners.
Pelton said he and his family enjoyed living in SND. They have witnessed many changes in the district and are looking forward to its continuous improvement.
Students and teachers from the Suzhou Foreign Language School offer volunteer teaching services in remote areas in Southwest China's Yunnan province. [Photo/WeChat account: snd-szgxqfb]
