Abstract:

Education in China is run by the State. Teachers are public employees. National finances will not cover the countryside due to teacher shortages. Villages invite teachers and pay them, creating a considerable difference in salary and welfare in the two teaching environments. The Jieling Primary School is in a small village and wants more than anything else to get national financing. The village hires Zhang Yingzi, a 20 year old high school graduate who takes the job because she has no other prospects. After initial struggles, she goes on to be a dedicated teacher for her students. With Ju Xue, Li Baotian, Xiu Zongdi and Wang Xueqi.