History and Development of Xing An Elementary School

1. Establishment and Early History:

Xing An Elementary School, located in the Da’an District of Taipei City, was established in April 1933 and initially named "Xing Xun Chang Primary School." It was founded during the period of Japanese rule in Taiwan and was situated in the Da’an area (formerly known as Banqiao). During this period, Taiwan's education system was heavily influenced by Japanese colonial policies, and schools were established to provide basic education for local children. Over time, the school's name and operations went through several changes.

2. Post-War Reforms and Name Changes:

After the end of World War II in 1945, Taiwan was returned to the Republic of China. This led to significant reforms in Taiwan's education system. In 1946, the school changed its name to "Banqiao National School, Da’an District," reflecting the societal and educational shifts following the war. During this period, schools began to emphasize national identity and the preservation of local culture in Taiwan.

3. Stabilization of the Name and Modern Development:

In 1951, the school's name was changed to "Xing An National School," which it continued to use for many years. By the 1960s, as Taiwan’s society continued to develop, the school became increasingly modernized and focused on the holistic development of its students. In 1968, as part of broader educational reforms, the school adopted the name "Xing An National Elementary School," which has been in use to this day.

At this time, the school gradually shifted from being a purely academic institution to one that also emphasized character education, physical development, and innovative learning. The school began to prioritize a diverse learning environment and fostered a philosophy of well-rounded student development.

4. Educational Philosophy and Development:

Since its founding, Xing An Elementary School has adhered to the educational philosophy of "Morality, Intelligence, Physical Education, Group Cooperation, and Aesthetic Education" — a balanced approach to developing students in various areas. The core of this philosophy is to cultivate students' character, intellectual abilities, physical health, teamwork skills, and aesthetic appreciation. In addition to academic education, the school places a strong emphasis on character development and fosters students’ self-esteem, self-respect, and social responsibility.

The school also promotes extracurricular activities and sports, offering students more opportunities for practical learning. These activities allow students to develop teamwork and cooperation skills, which they can apply both in school and in the broader community.

5. Innovation and Environmental Education:

Xing An Elementary School has been highly innovative in recent years, introducing numerous environmental and sustainable development education initiatives. These include projects such as aquaponics systems and small farming education, which teach students about environmental conservation and sustainability. Through hands-on participation, students not only learn about science but also gain a sense of responsibility for the environment.

Furthermore, the school has actively incorporated modern technologies, such as digital learning tools, into its teaching methods. This enables students to learn in a cutting-edge environment and fosters creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

6. Community Interaction and Parental Involvement:

In addition to its in-school education, Xing An Elementary School values the involvement of the community and parents. The school regularly holds open days, inviting parents and community members to engage with the educational projects and activities students are involved in. This interaction extends the educational experience beyond the classroom, fostering greater environmental awareness and supporting students’ overall development.

7. Future Prospects and Challenges:

Looking ahead, Xing An Elementary School plans to continue exploring and developing educational innovation, environmental protection, and digital learning. The school aims to expand its environmental facilities and introduce more smart technology to enhance students’ learning experiences. Additionally, the school will strengthen international exchanges, allowing students to broaden their horizons and develop into responsible global citizens.

In summary, Xing An Elementary School has evolved from a basic educational institution into a modern school that emphasizes innovation, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Its history and achievements are not only part of Taiwan’s educational history but also witness the societal transformation and educational reforms that have taken place over the years.