First Week of School

by Jimmy

Our first week of school has started. Being that we live in Haiti, we do not necessarily observe Labor Day. Seeing as the kids are so excited to start school, they would be sorely disappointed if their first day of school were postponed.

So here they are...

Our students starting School Year 2012.

With their teachers.

Starting class time.

Notice the socks and bare feet. We were blessed with new tile just in time for school to start. It rained the night before, so we all had to take off our shoes so that we would not track mud everywhere. They all did very well.

It is such a joy and privilege to teach these kids. The difference that we are able be a part of is stark. Going from 30 students per class period in the public school system, to 4 to 6 at a time here, makes us very grateful. Even throwing in a hot, fussy baby, still does not close the gap. 

Abbi has been a little needy over the first couple days of school. I personally had it in mind that she would just sleep and play on the rugs or in her crib, and we could teach as normal. With it being so hot and humid, her naps are limited, and she wants one of us to be right there. I think we will get into a routine, but it may take a little doing. We just have to figure things out. 

This is our second time through this curriculum, so we hit the ground running. The younger ones have their older siblings to help them, and we now know what we need to do from the beginning. Staying on top of things will be so much easier from the get go. I am very excited about this new year.