As you may have guessed from previous comments, I really enjoy working with the first and second graders. They have a zest and zeal for reading and phonics like I've never seen; they're respectful of this 'palogi' teacher; they are awed by anything I show them. I have some pretty stickers that my Mom gave me, and I've been doling them out as prizes for attentive reading. The kids will work hard and shape up like you wouldn't believe in order to get one of these 'treasures'. I wish I had a more valuable prize to give them! School supplies are limited, because everything is donated or nonexistent. Notebooks are passed down sibling to sibling; a single eraser is shared among six children; there are only two hand-held pencil sharpeners to a room. Many of the books are used, so they are in poor shape, to say the least. However, it's better than the public schools here can offer!
I wish you could all come over here and meet these kids in person, but, instead, I'll 'introduce' you to the classes, both in one room but at different tables. Here they are!
For those of you who were wondering, the boys wear shorts, and the girls wear skorts, shorts with a flap down the front and back. This flap is useful for wiping away food, tears, sweat, and much more; fanning themselves; twisting when they don't know what else to do; carrying things; and hitting each other with! A very useful uniform!
All these children are so precious, and I enjoy teaching them and being a part of their lives for the short time that I'm here.
I hope you enjoy it!