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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