S'pore secondary school teacher dies at 55, never gave up on 'problem students' & touched lives of countless students

The lead teacher for Physics at Yusof Ishak Secondary School (YISS) died at the age of 55.

Lau Chu Beng's passing was announced on Aug. 7 via the school's Facebook page.

'Left lasting mark'

Calling Lau a "steady, guiding presence" through many chapters of the school's journey, the post noted that he was instrumental in establishing the school's Centre for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE).

According to its website, the CTLE is where "teacher learning occurs within the context of the classroom, through masterclasses and demonstration classes".

In sharing the news with "deep sadness", the post noted that Lau had joined the school in 2009.

He then spent his career "doing what he loved most, teaching Physics and making a difference in the lives of those around him".

Lau, who was known for his positive spirit and willingness to go the extra mile, touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and parents over the years, the post added.

The school thanked Lau for his dedication, warmth, and the "lasting mark" he left on the YISS family.

The post read: "You will not be forgotten.

"Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time."

Never gave up on 'problem students'

One of Lau's former students, now 26, told Lianhe Zaobao that Lau taught him when he attended the school 10 years ago.

Data engineer Chen Minghui (transliterated) said that many students in his class, including himself, did not like Physics at the time, even being regarded as "problem students".

He noted, however, that Lau never gave up on them, treating them as friends and doing his best to tutor them.

Chen said: "[He] is very friendly. If there is not enough time in class, he will take the time to call us to explain difficult problems, or even arrive at school early or stay afterwards to give us extra lessons."

He added that he felt pressured as the O-Level exams were approaching and sought help, after which Lau gave him advice and guidance.

Zaobao reported that instead of traditional teaching methods, Lau used jokes and social media elements to make his classes "fun and diverse".

Under Lau's guidance, Chen achieved excellent results in the O-Level exams after previously failing the subject.

Most students in his class also made significant progress in their studies.

Stayed though school moved locations

Chen said: "[He] made us believe that physics can be very interesting as long as we put in the effort."

Another of Lau's former students, now 26, told Zaobao that his teacher's life was "incredibly fulfilling and meaningful".

Lau had devoted his entire life to illuminating the future of countless students, he added.

The former student, Huang (transliterated), said that after the school moved from Bukit Batok to Punggol, some teachers applied to transfer schools due to the long distance.

Despite staying in the west, Lau remained in the school and endured daily traffic jams to continue teaching in Punggol.

Just held birthday party last month

Lau's death came as a shock as the school had just held a birthday party for him last month, Huang added.

He had been in good spirits at the time, and everyone was saddened at his passing, Zaobao reported.

Many students came to the funeral hall to pay their respects after learning about his passing, which Huang said was the best proof that he was deeply loved by everyone.

Following news of Lau's passing, students, parents and colleagues alike have taken to the school's Facebook page to offer their condolences and share their memories of him.

One student remembers Lau for his "kind and loving teaching".

A parent pointed out that Lau was her son's favourite teacher in the school, adding that she always remembered Lau's "kindness and encouragement" when her son faced difficulties in science during his lower secondary years.

One parent said she appreciated Lau's guidance during her daughter's O-Level exams last year.

Another parent who visited the school's orientation was struck by how much he must have cared for the students that she saw their "utmost respect and adoration" for him.

Member of Parliament (MP) for Bukit Panjang SMC Liang Eng Hwa commented on the post that he was "deeply saddened" by the news.

"He has been such a decent and jolly person; always caring and dedicated to people around him," he said.

"We will miss him dearly. Chu Beng, rest in peace…"