Mr. Tafel’s migration to China was prompted by a unique opportunity rather than a pressing need to escape adversity.
A pivotal figure in his decision was the school principal he was working with, Bill Parker. After Bill migrated to Shanghai American School from the United States, things he learned and encountered in Shanghai intrigued Mr. Tafel. Although working as a teacher in the town Deerfield was a dream job, it was easy for Mr. Tafel to see himself doing the same thing every day until he retires. As Mr. Tafel’s first marriage peacefully came to an end, there was nothing keep him behind from start an adventure and add more nuances in his life.
After a few conversations with Bill, he was extremely supportive in encouraging Mr. Tafel to migrate.
In October of that school year, he reached out to Bill again, seeking guidance on how to secure a position at an international school. His advice set me on a path of exploration, leading to a decision that would shape the next phase of his life. On his birthday in February 2001, he took the leap, signing a contract that marked the beginning of his journey to China.