A US teacher's bond with China

Martin Olson communicates with his students during lunch time at Nanjing Zhiyuan Foreign Language Primary School in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, May 8, 2026. Martin Olson, 34, is a US teacher at Nanjing Zhiyuan Foreign Language Primary School in Nanjing. His vivid expressions and exaggerated movements fill the classroom with clear laughter. Whenever the children successfully complete the spelling, Olson tacitly gives them a high-five.

Olson has lived in China for 11 years, nine of which have been spent in Nanjing. In class, Olson not only takes children to learn English with nursery rhymes and situational games, but also shares some American stories. In turn, the children will enthusiastically teach him to speak authentic Chinese and discuss traditional customs.

Olson's connection with China began with Chinese language courses during his college years. Over the years, he has persevered in learning and understanding Chinese. In his spare time, he enjoys strolling through Nanjing's streets and alleys.

Olson plans to travel to more Chinese cities in the future. "Living in China is very enjoyable. The smiles of the children fill me with joy," Olson said.