Day Three of Teaching in San Pablo Village - Rachel Williams

Today was our third day in the Village of San Pablo. As our van drove up to the school, the children began crowding around the vehicle waiting for us to step out. It was one of the warmest welcomes any of us had ever received. Before our school day began we were able to hang out with the children. We took pictures, played volleyball, and enjoyed conversation with the teachers and students. At the sound of the first bell, the students scurried to their place in line outside of their classroom doors. They had a short general assembly meeting and then were dismissed to their classrooms. As I walked around taking pictures and supporting fellow teachers I heard laughter, deep math conversation, and singing. These sounds are sounds that will ring in my heart and mind for a long time. Their energy, excitement, and gratefulness has found its way into all of our hearts. We will be sad to leave, but will leave with knowledge and wisdom gained from the students and teachers.

Rachel Williams

Red Bank Teaching Day 2 Photos

San Pablo - Teaching Day 2 Photos

Red Bank Teaching Day - Jessica Buck and Emily Busch

Good Evening! Today was our second day at Red Bank School. The children are so sweet, and always have a smile on their faces! Each day we are learning more about their culture and they are asking many questions about ours! Each day our lessons are getting better and better because we are getting to know our students and the way they learn. The students try very hard during the lessons and are involved in the learning activities that we have planned for them.

 Even though the heat is very different from what we are used to, the day flies by. We are very engaged in our lessons and playing with the students during their frequent breaks.  We don’t realize how fast the time passes. We are enjoying the breaks because it gives the students time to get up and moving, and gives us more time to get to know our students. We are already bonding and building relationships with the students.

Our second day went so smoothly due to the support we are getting from our professors/ math guru’s! We have ideas in our heads on how to present the content to our students, and they help us put it into action. We have many ideas for tomorrow and after tonight’s planning session, we will feel even more prepared for Day 3!

We have thoroughly enjoyed our daily trip to Ming’s Superstore to gather our essential ice cold drinks, ice cream, and other snacks. There is nothing better after being in a hot school building than buying a cold coke made with sugar cane!

Jessica Buck and Emily Busch

Red Bank Day 1 - Angela Green

Teaching at Red Bank - Day One

Today was our first day teaching at Red Bank Christian School. We started our day with the students gathering for devotional. It was very moving.  Many of us were surprised with the songs and prayers the students recited. It was such a positive experience. After the devotions we were introduced to the students. Everyone from the administration, the teachers, and the students were so welcoming.

 I worked with the Infant I students. They are all five years old. I fell in love with them right away. They were so excited to have Ms. Angela in their classroom. We jumped right in and started teaching our math lesson.  I taught a lesson on counting and the students were having so much fun.

 Many of the teachers from University of Louisville played tag and other games outside with the students during recess. There was lots of laughter during the student’s break time. They are so loving and sweet. I know that this experience will change my life forever.

 Please stay tuned for updates from my new friends. Our adventure continues.

 Best wishes,

Angela Green  

 

Red Bank Photos - Day 1

San Pablo Reflection from Alli Kindt and Micaela Wang- Day 1

Today was our first day teaching! We went to two different schools: Red Bank and San Pablo. Micaela and I journeyed to San Pablo, a 45 minute drive on a dirt and gravel pathway. It was quite bumpy! When we arrived, we had so many smiling faces come to greet us. The students all took our hands immediately and wanted to show us around. Many of us played volleyball with the students before the bell rang to begin the day. Before starting class, the principal of San Pablo had us introduce ourselves to all of the students and teachers. We were so ready to get into the classroom and teach!

Despite the overwhelming heat, we all taught our lessons with smiles on our faces. It was nice to have an hour long lunch (where the students go home in the village to eat) as well as other breaks spread throughout the school day. These breaks were a great way to get to know the kids even more and rejuvenate for more learning.

It was so gratifying seeing all of the students so eager to learn and be with us. The teachers are all so dedicated to their work, and it was inspiring to see their dedication. After all, this is what our Belize trip is all about! Stay tuned to hear all of our eye-opening experiences throughout the week.

-Alli Kindt and Micaela Wang