Introducing Mr. Bullock, MYP Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, and Design Teacher 7 April 2017

Mr. John Bullock is our Secondary School’s Language & Literature, Individuals & Societies, and Design Teacher. He also assists the School Council and run the Friday morning meetings for our staff. With his already 15 years of experience in Education, Mr. Bullock is an expert building positive thinking mindset for students (and also colleagues). Let’s get to know him more!

Can you first share your favourite inspirational quote with us?
“The Mind is everything. What you think, you become” Buddha

Where are you from and how long have you been living in Japan?
I am originally from Florida in the United States of America. My hometown is St. Augustine. I have been living in Japan since June of 2003.

What did you study, why, and what did you like the most?
My degrees are in History and Secondary Education. I also like Psychology and Sociology. Additionally, I enjoy reading and teaching Literature and philosophy. I enjoy big ideas because I think that is the most important thing in Civilization and it is how we organize ourselves, around key ideas.

How long have you been teaching or working in Education?
I have been teaching continuously since 2003, also a year in America, so 15 years of education now.

What are the achievements you are most proud of?
I served my country honorably for four years in the US Army. I have two Bachelor’s degrees. However, the things I am most proud of are actually small personal victories over negative habits which most take for granted and are very hard to change. I try to improve in some way every year.

What do you like most about teaching or working in Education?
I do like working with the children and my colleagues of course. However the best part is the “A-Ha!” moments. When a student struggles and suddenly gets a concept and you can physically see it on their face and at that second you know you completely changed that person for the rest of their life in a positive way.

What are your roles here at A-JIS?
I teach Language & Literature, Individuals & Societies, and Design. I also assist the School Council and run the Friday morning meetings for our staff.

What do you do for fun?
Read books and watch movies. Do something fun with my son or play with my dog. When I get a chance I like Kayaking. I also enjoy traveling but I try to go away from tourist areas. I like seeing what the local sees

Do you have any special sayings or expressions? Can you share them with us?
“You can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs”

I say this a lot to kids to remind them that failure is part of learning.

Is there something interesting about yourself you would like to share?
Ironically, my birthday is Pearl Harbor Day.