Thursday, June 27, 2013

Privileges along with responsibility

A week and a half into our trip, Devon and I confidently enter Class 3 at Te Uki Ou school. This is one of the few private schools on the island. The students pay approximately $40 a week to attend. The school is going through some subtle changes. Simon, the new principal from New Zealand, has just started his second week. Monday assembly has a new structure. He is giving the older students privileges such as chairs to sit on (vs. the floor) at the assembly. Though this may not seem like much, it helps enforce that the older students get privileges along with responsibility such as daily burning of the school rubbish. Simon has also started a journal in the staff break room for teachers to write suggestions and concerns. Most of the staff seems receptive to Simon, yet it appears some may resist change. I think he would be a real asset to any school.

Devon and I work in Tea’s classroom with 22 energetic six- and seven-year-olds. Most days we each lead groups of five children at varying levels of reading, writing, and “maths.” The last couple of days we have been working on transportation, which is their topic study for the month. The kids embrace this diversion from the routine. Devon’s favorite time is recess! The students love to show off their climbing skills on the monkey bars and pose for photos.

Dinner conversation tonight was especially interesting. James explained how the Cook Island land system works and the role of chiefs and the land courts. We also learned that some high school students were suspended for drinking at school and at another school others were caught smoking marijuana. Sounds just like issues we have at home. Universal norms!

My quote sums up our two Kentucky girls’ snack habits - try anything once, twice if you like it! After having an upset stomach yesterday, Hayley and Kendra again felt the need to have another wet burger from Palace Burgers. Tyreka may rear her ugly head again!

Entry submitted by: Suzanne


Message of the Day: “Inspire someone to inspire someone.”

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