Meet Mr. David Schardt, also known as Mr. Chip, our beloved Kindergarten teacher with decades of experience and a true passion for education. Every day, he brings energy, warmth, and a sense of adventure to the classroom, making learning exciting for our youngest learners. To his students, he’s not just a teacher—he’s a mentor, a storyteller, and a guiding hand through their first steps in learning.
A Journey of Experience and Dedication
Mr. Chip has called Thailand home for 24 years, spending the past seven at D-PREP. His journey in education began in 1982 as a gymnastics teacher in the United States. After some time in a school management position, his passion for working directly with students led him back to teaching, where he truly found his calling. With this diverse background, Mr. Chip brings a well-rounded and insightful approach to his role as an educator.
Every day, a new adventure
When asked what inspires him most about teaching young children, Mr. Chip’s eyes light up. “Every day is a new day,” he says. “The kids come in ready to learn, and their courage is remarkable. Even when they make mistakes, they bounce back quickly and are ready to try again.” This resilience fuels Mr. Chip’s passion and keeps him motivated. The freshness that Kindergarten kids bring makes each day feel new and exciting as if he’s starting his teaching journey all over again.
A teacher who never stops growing
Mr. Chip is a big believer in peer observation. “Trendy ideas come and go, but watching and learning from each other is what really works,” he says. He and his co-teachers follow this practice, creating a space where they learn and grow together every day.
Building confidence, one word at a time
One of Mr. Chip’s favorite activities with his students is a daily sharing session. “Every day, they tell me what they did yesterday or over the weekend,” he explains. Initially, only a few students were comfortable expressing themselves, but this simple exercise has led to noticeable growth over time. Now, more students can confidently share their thoughts, reflect on their experiences, and build their communication skills. For Mr. Chip, these small victories make teaching so rewarding.
A supportive community at D-PREP
After several years at D-PREP, Mr. Chip reflects on what makes the school special for him: the support from management and the trust they place in their teachers to bring their own ideas to life. He values the freedom to explore new concepts and make decisions that truly benefit his students, all within the school’s framework. “It’s not just about following guidelines; it’s about having the freedom to innovate,” he says, highlighting how this environment allows him to thrive and take ownership as an educator.
Beyond the classroom
Outside of school, Mr. Chip’s adventurous spirit shines through. Whether he’s scuba diving or biking with friends from all over the world, he embraces life with energy and enthusiasm. When asked to describe himself in three words, he thoughtfully chose “fun, intuitive, and reliable.” These qualities aren’t just reserved for his adventures—they deeply influence how he connects with his students in the classroom.
Mr. Chip’s genuine care for his students and his love for teaching make him an invaluable part of the D-PREP community. His journey shows just how much a dedicated teacher can shape young minds and inspire lifelong learning. We’re truly lucky to have Mr. Chip on our team!
