Principal says Stephen Loh was 'a teacher of promise'
By Asha Popatlal, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 25 November 2007 2140 hrs

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/313650/1/.html

SINGAPORE: National Junior College Principal Virginia Cheng described 31-year-old physical education teacher Stephen Loh Soon Ann, who died in Friday's boating accident in Cambodia, as a teacher of promise.

An engineer who made a mid-career switch to become a teacher only six months ago, Mr Loh had already made an impact in the school by building up a strong squash team and being involved in leadership building and the track and field team.

"We are saddened because in the six months, he was very, very engrossed with teaching... he was a teacher of promise and (his) switch to (the) teaching profession was a good one. The kids loved him," said Mrs Cheng.

Naturally, the news came as a shock for all.

"They knew that Stephen had gone to Cambodia. Everybody was very anxious and when they said he was among the five who were missing, that was a terrible moment for us," she added.

With news that his body was found on Sunday morning, the school will now meet teachers and students to offer help and counselling.

"Usually when such tragedy strikes, the reaction sets in later. We think we should be there for the children and the teachers, and also those who have worked with him. I am sure Stephen will want us to be strong," said Mrs Cheng.

The school is also in touch with his family to offer whatever help they can.

- CNA/so