There have been over 9000 deaths due to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. One of those deaths was an American woman who taught English to Japanese children in Ishinomaki, Japan.
     Taylor Anderson, 24, was missing since the tsunami hit. According to her parents she had been teaching in Ishinomaki for the last 3 years. The city in which she was teaching was hit by the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami.

     “We would like to thank all those whose prayers and support have carried us through this crisis. Please continue to pray for all who remain missing and for the people of Japan,” her family said.
     Anderson was from Virginia, the oldest of 3 children. Her parents said that she loved Japan, the culture and children.
     Other teachers at the school said that she got on her bike and tried to get home. The tsunami waters did not reach the school, but hit Anderson’s neighborhood head on.
     “Fittingly, she was last seen helping parents safely reunite with their children following the earthquake, an act which illustrates her dedication to her students and to the Japanese people that she served,” Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell said. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with Taylor’s family and friends during this difficult time.” Anderson is the first American reported to have been killed in the natural disasters.

     Some students have heard about this tragedy. “I feel so bad and I think someone should do something about it. It’s very unfortunate and I feel so bad for the teacher’s family,” said junior Logan Dietrich.

Sources:

www.reuters.com

www.cnn.com