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The Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Hsi Lai Temple Three Acts of Goodness (TAG) School kicked off its fall semester with an opening ceremony on September 15, 2024. A total of 150 students, ages 4 to 15, were divided into four classes: Preschool, Kids, Junior, and Youth. Over 200 people, including parents, gathered in the Auditorium to celebrate the new semester. Speakers at the event included Venerable Yi Shan, Superintendent of Hsi Lai Temple; Dr. Lewis Lancaster, Professor Emeritus at UC Berkeley; and Echo Tsai, Vice President of the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Los Angeles Chapter.
Venerable Yi Shan emphasized that the TAG School is dedicated to building students' character through the "Three Acts of Goodness" (Doing Good Deeds, Speaking Good Words, and Thinking Good Thoughts), a philosophy introduced by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founding master of Fo Guang Shan Monastery. The school has grown in popularity, with enrollment reaching 100 to 200 students each semester, mostly through word of mouth. Some parents have had to wait until the next semester because the classes fill up quickly, highlighting the school's strong reputation for moral education.
Dr. Lancaster shared a story about a London taxi driver who memorized countless street names and routes as part of his job. A brain scan revealed that the driver’s brain had developed unique patterns from this practice. Dr. Lancaster encouraged students to practice the Three Acts of Goodness until they become second nature, just as the taxi driver memorized every street. He said that by doing so, they can lead more meaningful and transformative lives.
Venerable Hui Cheng, the Guiding Venerable of the TAG School, explained that the school focuses on fostering moral development, creativity, self-discipline, and essential skills through Buddhist teachings. He also recognized 30 volunteer teachers and counselors with certificates of appreciation for their dedication.
Jasmine Springman, an elementary school teacher who volunteers in the Kids class, shared why she got involved. She believes in the importance of the TAG School in shaping students' values. Despite her busy teaching job, she volunteers at TAG School, hoping the TAG principles will help her students face life's challenges.
Parent Hendra Taruli shared how his two children have become more polite and considerate after attending TAG School for two years. He and his wife, Henny Ciawi, feel confident knowing their kids are growing up in an environment where all students practice the TAG principles together. Another parent, Yudha Dewantoro, recalled when his son, James, reminded him of the Buddha’s teachings and TAG principles when Yudha was frustrated, showing how the education is impacting his son.
In addition to classes for children, Hsi Lai Temple offers courses for parents. Thu Tran, speaking on behalf of the other parents, expressed gratitude for the TAG Parent Class, which covers meditation, physical and mental well-being, and parenting skills, helping parents stay grounded and grow alongside their children in their busy lives.
(Photos Provided by Yi He, Zhen Yu & Jonathan Thang)
