For many years, the image of Vice Principal Vu Van Ben of Tran Nhan Tong Primary School (Dong A Ward, Ninh Binh Province) standing at the school gate every morning, smiling and welcoming students with a handshake, has become a familiar sight.

Planting seeds of positive habits

Mr. Vu Van Ben graduated from Hanoi National University of Education in 2001 with a degree in primary education. Like many young teachers, he initially struggled with classroom management and communication, unsure how to connect with students effectively.

Over time, he learned to listen more, put himself in his students' shoes, and adapted his teaching style to be more approachable and supportive.

Reflecting on his now-signature morning greeting, he recalled that it began during his early teaching years. At first, it was occasional - a handshake with students when his class was on duty or while standing at his classroom door.

But the cheerful reactions from the students inspired him to make it a daily habit.

From hall monitors to handshakes

In 2017, Mr. Ben was appointed Vice Principal of Loc An Primary School (then in Loc An Commune, Nam Dinh City, now Truong Thi Ward, Ninh Binh Province).

“I was excited - not because I got a management role, but because it gave me the opportunity to launch a ‘small revolution’ at school,” he said.

From his new position, he proposed removing hall monitors, stopping penalties for late arrivals, and no longer reprimanding students for dress code violations. Instead, he aimed to create a more welcoming, student-friendly environment.

His ideas were welcomed by the school principal and fellow teachers.

From that point on, Mr. Ben consistently greeted students every morning at the school gate with a warm handshake.

Two years later, when he transferred to Tran Nhan Tong Primary School, he continued this morning ritual.

With the belief that “students come to school to be welcomed, not judged,” Mr. Ben has been building a culture of kindness throughout the school. For the past six years, there have been no student monitors stationed at the gate to record tardiness or rule violations. Instead, students on weekly duty stand in neat rows, smiling and greeting their peers.

Each week, a different class takes on this responsibility, allowing every student to experience the role of greeter.

“When children take turns greeting others, they learn that kindness is mutual - when you say hello, someone will eventually say hello back. It’s the first lesson in fairness and compassion,” he shared.

A habit becomes character

According to Mr. Ben, consistent positive behavior forms habits, which in turn shape character. For young children, especially in primary school, actions speak louder than words. The most effective way to teach is through persistent, meaningful gestures from adults.

That’s why, for the past eight years, Mr. Ben has faithfully stood at the school gate to welcome students with a smile and handshake - a way to plant seeds of confidence and kindness.

More mentor than manager

To maintain this routine, Mr. Ben starts his day at 4:30 a.m. He exercises, prepares breakfast for his family, and arrives at school by 6:15 to clean his office - because at his school, every teacher tidies their own workspace as a model for students.

By 6:45 a.m., he’s at the gate to greet students. Although his duties sometimes take him away from school, he strives to maintain this ritual at least three mornings a week.

When greeting students, he doesn’t just offer handshakes - he engages them in conversation, asking about their interests and encouraging them to open up.

Some students, once shy and withdrawn, have become more confident through these morning exchanges. They now approach him eagerly, smiling and reaching out their hands. Some even request their own unique greeting styles.

“Some like to be lifted into the air, others turn around and wait for me to pat them on the shoulder. Some just smile and nod. I respect their differences and try to remember each student's preferences so they don’t feel left out,” Mr. Ben said.

His thoughtful attention has made him more than an administrator - he’s a trusted friend. Students often call out to him: “Good morning, handsome Mr. Ben!” with genuine affection.

Quang Long, a fifth grader, shared: “Every morning, when I see Mr. Ben at the gate, I run to shake his hand. It gives me energy for the day. School is so fun, I love coming here!”

During recess, Mr. Ben’s office is a hub of activity. Students drop by to read, talk, or share stories. However, he has a rule: only groups of two or more are allowed in at once, regardless of gender.

“To me, it’s a small way to teach them about boundaries, transparency, and protecting each other,” he explained.

Tran Thi Khanh Linh, a parent, shared: “I fully support Mr. Ben’s approach, and the methods of all the teachers here. Seeing my child excited to go to school every day makes me so happy. The warm welcome and handshakes from Mr. Ben make my child feel valued and loved. I’ve noticed a huge boost in confidence.”

Trong Tung