The past few nights during devotions we have been talking about the goals that we have for ourselves for when we return home. One of the common themes includes time management and making sure that we make more times daily for God and relationships with others. My personal goal is to be intentional. I was so intentional about getting to know all of my students and making sure they knew that they were loved while I was at Faith Nazarene School. When I return home I want to be more intentional about getting to know my friends better, making sure that the people that I am blessed to have in my life know that they are loved, and to intentionally share Christ's love with my students. For me, the change that occured wasn't in a teaching style or behavior management technique, but in my heart. God has broken my heart for what breaks His and I could not be more excited to see the future that He holds for me because of it all.
This morning (Sunday) we spent our last Sunday at Succotz Church of the Nazarene. I think it is safe to see that all of us girls have been blessed by this church and its people. The pastor spoke this morning about Romans 12 and truly being living sacrifices for God. This hit home for me, especially near the end of our trip. As we continue to Caye Caulker and especially as we journey home, the focus of our life should be being a living sacrifice for God, what a great task and honor!
After church we made our last walk up the hills back to camp (if we don't have calves of steel when we return home I will be a little disappointed). Our last meal, made by our cooks, was delicious...especially the cheese dip. Shortly after lunch we loaded a trailer with our luggage, loaded into the 26 passenger van and made our way to Belize city. The few hour drive was full of amazing sites. It was bittersweet to leave our home of two weeks, but this hotel does not disappoint! Compared to North American standards, this hotel wouldn't rate too highly, but after two weeks at the Nazarene Campgrounds the air conditioning and hot shower are priceless! The warm shower was one of the best of my life and I finally feel clean. Sleeping on a real bed tonight sure won't be a let down either.
Please continue to prayer for us! Even though we are done teaching, we are still "unpacking" the experience and learning from it. Tomorrow at 8am we leave for our water taxi to Caye Caulker where we will be living the good life! Again, Internet access may be limited so no news doesn't mean bad news! Thank you so much for all of the prayers, we have been so blessed. We all send our love and miss you, can't wait to see you all soon!
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Ambassadors
What a great Saturday it was! We all slept in leisurely and woke up when the sun became too bright. I took my second to last shower an managed to avoid all creepy crawlers then had another delicious breakfast. I then traveled back to Xunantunich (the Mayan ruin) with 6 other girls. This time I remembered to bring along Flat Stanley and the Daily Record! The sight from the top still left me in awe. I can't even begin to describe how awesome it was! We ate lunch at Benny's in town. I tried cow foot for the first (and hopefully last) time. It tasted surprisingly bland and chewy like jello. We hit up the market one last time and made a lot of final souvenir purchases. The evening ended at church for the youth service. The message was an amazing one, the pastor spoke about how we are all ambassadors of Christ and how they will be continually praying for us to be good representatives as we return to the states. I will truly miss the church services here. Time for bed, got to get in plenty of sleep so I can wake up to watch the sunrise.
Reflection from Morgan
Hola Families, Friends, and Prayer Warriors,
In less than one week we will be on a plane heading home, leaving this beautiful country, we have all come to love, Belize! I can hardly believe we'll be leaving. Yesterday was our last day with our precious students. No part of this day was easy. Whether we were reading one last game of "freeze catch" or getting those last few hugs, we all scored each and every memory. We truly have memories that we'll never forget.
As we all shared in devotions last night after a long, emotional day, a common trend of our feelings after eight days in our different classrooms was blessed. Each and everyone of us has been blessed by our students, our cooperating teachers, each other and God. Even though it is hard to leave these kids that we will always hold a special place in our hearts, we are blessed to come home to all of you in just six days! We're definitely looking forward to seeing our families and friends, but the snow...not so excited about that. For now we are looking forward to a few data on the beaches of Caye Caulker! :) Today we are relaxing, shopping and eating lunch at Benny's before we leave the place we've called home for two weeks tomorrow afternoon.
Can't wait to see you all...Dad, Mom, Mallory, Jon, Parker, Madison, Mackenzie, and Ben...But until then I'm soaking up the sun!
Love and Miss you all!
Morgan Coburn
In less than one week we will be on a plane heading home, leaving this beautiful country, we have all come to love, Belize! I can hardly believe we'll be leaving. Yesterday was our last day with our precious students. No part of this day was easy. Whether we were reading one last game of "freeze catch" or getting those last few hugs, we all scored each and every memory. We truly have memories that we'll never forget.
As we all shared in devotions last night after a long, emotional day, a common trend of our feelings after eight days in our different classrooms was blessed. Each and everyone of us has been blessed by our students, our cooperating teachers, each other and God. Even though it is hard to leave these kids that we will always hold a special place in our hearts, we are blessed to come home to all of you in just six days! We're definitely looking forward to seeing our families and friends, but the snow...not so excited about that. For now we are looking forward to a few data on the beaches of Caye Caulker! :) Today we are relaxing, shopping and eating lunch at Benny's before we leave the place we've called home for two weeks tomorrow afternoon.
Can't wait to see you all...Dad, Mom, Mallory, Jon, Parker, Madison, Mackenzie, and Ben...But until then I'm soaking up the sun!
Love and Miss you all!
Morgan Coburn
Friday, January 20, 2012
Nature
Before I left for Belize I had the feeling that the people there needed me. I felt that they needed me to help them teach, to show them love, just to make their lives better. I absolutely hate to admit that I ever thought these things, especially now. The people of Belize didn't need me at all, I needed them. I needed them to remind me that life is about relationships, community, and Christ. I needed them to break my heart so I could see what it is really all about. In my freshman and sophomore fields felt like my goals for the day were to teach a good lesson or learn a new strategy from my cooperating teacher. My junior year I put a little more focus on investing my time in the student's lives. My goal while here has totally been surrounded around just showing love to my students and I wonder why this hasn't been my focus all along. I know this experience in Belize will have a definite impact on my attitude as I enter my next field and as I one day have students of my own.
On a completely different as I was typing this I had the first encounter with a tarantula. All of the girls are seated around one long table in our cafeteria playing Draw Pass as Rachel and I sat at a nearby table headphones in blogging and journaling. Out of the corner of my eye I see Rachel rip out her earbuds and jump on top of the bench while calmly saying, "Girls there is a tarantula." I looked down to see a very nice sized tarantula right inbetween Rachel and myself. I jumped up and booked it to our cabin where I knew Jean had a small fish net just for such tarantula occasions. I ran to her bed, grabbed the fish net, and announced that we had a tarantula in the cafeteria. By the time I arrived back to the cafeteria all the girls were standing atop tables and benches screaming at the top of their lungs. The first attempt to trap the tarantula under the net was not successful, those things are creepily fast! It was then cornered against the leg of the bench and was easily trapped under the net. Thanks to the ingenuity of Ali we slid a piece of paper under the net trapping the tarantula in-between. Ali, Brittany Day, and I picked up the net and paper contraption and walked it out to the sidewalk. Then began the debate of wether to release it or to kill it and how. The decision was made that for our peace of mind it's life would have to be sacrificed. Brittany Day took the plunge and did the deed in two swift stomps while wearing flip flops. Thinking we were done with tarantulas I returned the net to Jean and told them that we had taken care of everything. We all settle back to our games and blogging thinking we were safe. Not even 10 minutes later were we standing on table tops screaming. I made another dart back to the dorm for the net and returned to find that the tarantula had hid under the fridge. We attempted to get it out with a broom stick, but did not succeed. We think it might have been impailed by the fridge leg, but the fish net sits next to me as I type this. We have (so far) survived to see another day.
On a completely different as I was typing this I had the first encounter with a tarantula. All of the girls are seated around one long table in our cafeteria playing Draw Pass as Rachel and I sat at a nearby table headphones in blogging and journaling. Out of the corner of my eye I see Rachel rip out her earbuds and jump on top of the bench while calmly saying, "Girls there is a tarantula." I looked down to see a very nice sized tarantula right inbetween Rachel and myself. I jumped up and booked it to our cabin where I knew Jean had a small fish net just for such tarantula occasions. I ran to her bed, grabbed the fish net, and announced that we had a tarantula in the cafeteria. By the time I arrived back to the cafeteria all the girls were standing atop tables and benches screaming at the top of their lungs. The first attempt to trap the tarantula under the net was not successful, those things are creepily fast! It was then cornered against the leg of the bench and was easily trapped under the net. Thanks to the ingenuity of Ali we slid a piece of paper under the net trapping the tarantula in-between. Ali, Brittany Day, and I picked up the net and paper contraption and walked it out to the sidewalk. Then began the debate of wether to release it or to kill it and how. The decision was made that for our peace of mind it's life would have to be sacrificed. Brittany Day took the plunge and did the deed in two swift stomps while wearing flip flops. Thinking we were done with tarantulas I returned the net to Jean and told them that we had taken care of everything. We all settle back to our games and blogging thinking we were safe. Not even 10 minutes later were we standing on table tops screaming. I made another dart back to the dorm for the net and returned to find that the tarantula had hid under the fridge. We attempted to get it out with a broom stick, but did not succeed. We think it might have been impailed by the fridge leg, but the fish net sits next to me as I type this. We have (so far) survived to see another day.
Reflection from Bethany
This morning when I woke up, I knew that it was going to be one of the hardest days I've had in a long time. I did not want to think about saying goodbye to my kids. I knew this feeling would consume me, so I just prayed that I would not only feel sadness today. Needless to say, he answered my prayers better than I could have imagined.
I walked into my classroom and was hugged and greeted by 30 rambunctious 5 and 6 year olds who know little to no English. Still, it was the best way to start the school day. I then received a note from a girl in my class that said, "miss Bethany, we love you because you good teacher. Love, Jacqueline". This was the beginning of many notes from my students and other admirers. Today the students took tests, so I did not get to interact with as many of them as I wanted, but I was still blessed to be with them. For lunch, our teachers and principal cooked a special celebration meal of tamales, potato salad, and chips and salsa. It was so yummy! The food here is killing me though, I think I've gained weight when I've wanted to lose it! The rest of the day I was able to play with my wonderful students and just be with them. There is one boy named Ethan who has captured my heart. Most of our conversations consist of him saying,"miss Bethany!" and then rattling off in Spanish and me looking very confused. But today, he came up to me with a very determined look on his face. He then said,"miss Bethany, you are very pretty and nice" in a very rehearsed manner. It blessed me so much that he took the time to learn to say something in english to me.
At the end of the day, I was overwhelmed with hugs, kisses, letters, happiness, and sadness. My cooperating teacher told me that my hard work will take me anywhere I need to go and she can't imagine her classroom without me. I had a really rough start with her, and it ended beautifully.
This trip has completely changed me. I've learned to look for the positive things in life. I've learned to love with my whole heart. I've learned that God is always near and preparing my heart for greater things. I'm so thankful for this trip. It has made me into someone I'm proud to be. It has created new relationships with friends. It has given me a new perspective on life and teaching. Mom, dad, and Ryan- Im apologizing in advance for the many Belize stories I'll be talking about constantly. :) thank you everyone for the prayers you've showered over us. I would not trade my experience for anything in the world. See you all in a week!
With love,
Bethany
I walked into my classroom and was hugged and greeted by 30 rambunctious 5 and 6 year olds who know little to no English. Still, it was the best way to start the school day. I then received a note from a girl in my class that said, "miss Bethany, we love you because you good teacher. Love, Jacqueline". This was the beginning of many notes from my students and other admirers. Today the students took tests, so I did not get to interact with as many of them as I wanted, but I was still blessed to be with them. For lunch, our teachers and principal cooked a special celebration meal of tamales, potato salad, and chips and salsa. It was so yummy! The food here is killing me though, I think I've gained weight when I've wanted to lose it! The rest of the day I was able to play with my wonderful students and just be with them. There is one boy named Ethan who has captured my heart. Most of our conversations consist of him saying,"miss Bethany!" and then rattling off in Spanish and me looking very confused. But today, he came up to me with a very determined look on his face. He then said,"miss Bethany, you are very pretty and nice" in a very rehearsed manner. It blessed me so much that he took the time to learn to say something in english to me.
At the end of the day, I was overwhelmed with hugs, kisses, letters, happiness, and sadness. My cooperating teacher told me that my hard work will take me anywhere I need to go and she can't imagine her classroom without me. I had a really rough start with her, and it ended beautifully.
This trip has completely changed me. I've learned to look for the positive things in life. I've learned to love with my whole heart. I've learned that God is always near and preparing my heart for greater things. I'm so thankful for this trip. It has made me into someone I'm proud to be. It has created new relationships with friends. It has given me a new perspective on life and teaching. Mom, dad, and Ryan- Im apologizing in advance for the many Belize stories I'll be talking about constantly. :) thank you everyone for the prayers you've showered over us. I would not trade my experience for anything in the world. See you all in a week!
With love,
Bethany
Bittersweet
Thursday, oh man. Mrs Taylor (University Supervisor) observed my lesson today and well, it was interesting. My cooperating teacher was gone for the entire lesson and my students were out of control! I tried every behavior management strategy that I could think of and said many prayers for patience...and somehow made it out alive. At the end of the lesson I was exhausted and disappointed in myself for not having the lesson going as planned, but I know that I tried my hardest. Mrs Taylor was very reaffirming during our conference, it was good to hear affirmation that I did my best and she was impressed with my patience. My experience with my cooperating teacher has definitely been a unique one, to put it nicely. Regardless of the many negatives that there were, I have learned a ton about classroom management and teaching.
Today (Friday) was the last day in the classroom. It was soooooo bittersweet. I will miss my students as individuals so much! I got plenty of pictures and had them all trace their hands and decorate them so I can pray for them and place my hand over theirs while I do so. It has been a very stretching time. I have grown so much as a teacher and a Christian, this has truly been an amazing experience. I am so blessed. In the same hand I am glad to be done with lesson plans and have some time for relaxation.
I am not sure how much Internet access I will have in the next week, but I will try to keep you all updated. Tomorrow we are sleeping in (as long as is possible with roosters, dogs, and howler monkies) and then heading into town for lunch at Benny's as well as some shopping at the market. Sunday brings church and then driving to Belize City before our departure to Caye Caulker.
Today (Friday) was the last day in the classroom. It was soooooo bittersweet. I will miss my students as individuals so much! I got plenty of pictures and had them all trace their hands and decorate them so I can pray for them and place my hand over theirs while I do so. It has been a very stretching time. I have grown so much as a teacher and a Christian, this has truly been an amazing experience. I am so blessed. In the same hand I am glad to be done with lesson plans and have some time for relaxation.
I am not sure how much Internet access I will have in the next week, but I will try to keep you all updated. Tomorrow we are sleeping in (as long as is possible with roosters, dogs, and howler monkies) and then heading into town for lunch at Benny's as well as some shopping at the market. Sunday brings church and then driving to Belize City before our departure to Caye Caulker.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Learning Styles
On Wednesday I received a much needed break from teaching and got to observe for the day. With so much time to observe I have a lot to reflect on!
The morning started with an interesting decision. We could choose to shower with a very large spider or with a cockroach. Both animals sought shelter in our showers and were a lovely morning surprise! We survived our showers and were rewarded for our bravery with pancakes!
I arrived at Faith Nazarene School early and had the opportunity to talk one-on-one with my students before school began. Imelin is a young girl in my class who, my cooperating teacher says, is abused by her family. Imelin is the youngest child in her family and she is neglected and made to do all of the chores in the home. She is often sleeping during the afternoon, rarely speaks in class, and is very withdrawn. I was reaffirmed that I am doing something right when Imelin saw me and smiled this morning. I don't think I have ever seen her smile before. I sat down next to her and we had a nice conversation about what she did yesterday and what her favorite hobbies are. I was happy to many any connection with her!
Another highlight of my day was when my cooperating teacher used a strategy for checking for understanding that I modeled in an earlier lesson. It made me happy to see some individual student attention in the classroom.
A cultural difference that I have seen in my classroom focuses around learning styles that are taught in the classroom. My teacher lectures and has students take notes (verbal and visual). In a second grade classroom in the States you would expect to see very little note-taking and lecturing and more experiential, kinesthetic, and visual learning. It is very important for teachers to teach to the whole range of learning styles. The teachers in Belize have not received formal training in the learning styles (something that we cover deeply in the States) so it is interesting to see their perspective on the issues. During the two day seminar that we had last week, Sharon, Jean, and Lena talked a lot about learning styles and teaching to them. I feel like this was a great step for some Belizean teachers!
I can't believe that this week is almost over! Prayers for patience and guidance are appreciated as we teach our final lessons! We all send our love! Can't wait to see you soon!
The morning started with an interesting decision. We could choose to shower with a very large spider or with a cockroach. Both animals sought shelter in our showers and were a lovely morning surprise! We survived our showers and were rewarded for our bravery with pancakes!
I arrived at Faith Nazarene School early and had the opportunity to talk one-on-one with my students before school began. Imelin is a young girl in my class who, my cooperating teacher says, is abused by her family. Imelin is the youngest child in her family and she is neglected and made to do all of the chores in the home. She is often sleeping during the afternoon, rarely speaks in class, and is very withdrawn. I was reaffirmed that I am doing something right when Imelin saw me and smiled this morning. I don't think I have ever seen her smile before. I sat down next to her and we had a nice conversation about what she did yesterday and what her favorite hobbies are. I was happy to many any connection with her!
Another highlight of my day was when my cooperating teacher used a strategy for checking for understanding that I modeled in an earlier lesson. It made me happy to see some individual student attention in the classroom.
A cultural difference that I have seen in my classroom focuses around learning styles that are taught in the classroom. My teacher lectures and has students take notes (verbal and visual). In a second grade classroom in the States you would expect to see very little note-taking and lecturing and more experiential, kinesthetic, and visual learning. It is very important for teachers to teach to the whole range of learning styles. The teachers in Belize have not received formal training in the learning styles (something that we cover deeply in the States) so it is interesting to see their perspective on the issues. During the two day seminar that we had last week, Sharon, Jean, and Lena talked a lot about learning styles and teaching to them. I feel like this was a great step for some Belizean teachers!
I can't believe that this week is almost over! Prayers for patience and guidance are appreciated as we teach our final lessons! We all send our love! Can't wait to see you soon!
Reflection from Rebecca
This trip has been a great stretching experience. One, I had never flown before, so that was a stretch. Two, on Saturday we went to a waterfall (with a steep climb!) and a cave and pools to swim in. Never in a million years did I think I would climb down the side of a mountain (of sorts) and back up intact. Three, I never that I would work with 5th graders. I'm certified to teach Family and Consumer Sciences to grades 7-12. It has been interesting and challenging but I have found my heart growing more and more full. These students can look at life in such an innocent and unspoiled way. I think that I have learned just as much, if not more, from them as they have from me. This trip has been a great stretching experience. I have been stretched physically, emotionally, and spiritually, but God has been with me, strengthening me, every step of the way.
Rebecca Fahrni
Rebecca Fahrni
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Attacked
I taught the rest of the day yesterday (Tuesday) and arrived back at camp pretty exhausted. There were a lot of ups and downs to the day. I could really see some of my students progressing and lighting up when I praised their work, but I was also frustrated with the lack of classroom management and how I felt that I sometimes wasn't in control of the classroom. When I returned to camp and did devotions I was drawn to the verse 2 Corinthians 4:1, "Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart." I can not lose heart with all of the negatives that I see. I am take the negatives, learn from them, and focus on the positives.
After a delicious spaghetti dinner with the best cheddar biscuits I have ever had in my life, we returned to lesson planning. Liz, Rachel, and I took a quick break and headed out to the basketball court to watch the stars. By this time it was pitch black outside and as we walked to the basketball court (just a few hundred yards from our cabin) with our flash lights we made a quick comment on how creepy it was, seeing that the basketball court is not too far away from the forest. Putting our worries aside we lied down on our towels and gazed at the night sky. I have never seen more stars (Yes, Dad, they even beat the stars on our trip in New York). As we were relaxing we were startled by voices. Turning around we saw two little boys walking towards us. They were looking for Clarissa so we directed them to the cafeteria, before they left that asked us if we were scared of being out at night. We hesitantly replied with a no, we weren't that far from the cabin. The boys made a comment that they were surprised that we weren't scared of anything running out of the woods and then left. That comment sure didn't help our imaginations. Shortly after they left we heard what sounded like a large pack of dogs attacking something by the woods. We were a little disheartened but were too in awe of the stars to move just yet. A few short minutes later we found ourselves being charged by two dogs growling ferociously and barking madly! I don't even remember standing up because we all jumped to our feet quickly and yielded our weapons out of instinct. Liz and Rachel grabbed their flashlights and I was left with my Pringles can. We yelled, what I am sure was a rather pathetic battle cry and shined the light in their eyes. The dogs quickly retreated and we made our way back to the cabin in record time. We all said that the one thought that flashed through our minds was, "No way am I going all the way to Belize to be killed by dogs/rabies." We were pretty shocked that the same dogs that don't move when we walk by them during the day would try to attack us later at night. We have learned our lesson! No being out at night without a flashlight, a Pringles can, and your best battle cry. Haha. Looking back it was a great time!
This week is flying by and we will be done teaching before we know it, but we still need your prayers! God has done a lot during our time here. He has drawn us into community with each other, he has humbled our hearts, he has made us better teachers, and he continues to make us more culturally responsive. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
After a delicious spaghetti dinner with the best cheddar biscuits I have ever had in my life, we returned to lesson planning. Liz, Rachel, and I took a quick break and headed out to the basketball court to watch the stars. By this time it was pitch black outside and as we walked to the basketball court (just a few hundred yards from our cabin) with our flash lights we made a quick comment on how creepy it was, seeing that the basketball court is not too far away from the forest. Putting our worries aside we lied down on our towels and gazed at the night sky. I have never seen more stars (Yes, Dad, they even beat the stars on our trip in New York). As we were relaxing we were startled by voices. Turning around we saw two little boys walking towards us. They were looking for Clarissa so we directed them to the cafeteria, before they left that asked us if we were scared of being out at night. We hesitantly replied with a no, we weren't that far from the cabin. The boys made a comment that they were surprised that we weren't scared of anything running out of the woods and then left. That comment sure didn't help our imaginations. Shortly after they left we heard what sounded like a large pack of dogs attacking something by the woods. We were a little disheartened but were too in awe of the stars to move just yet. A few short minutes later we found ourselves being charged by two dogs growling ferociously and barking madly! I don't even remember standing up because we all jumped to our feet quickly and yielded our weapons out of instinct. Liz and Rachel grabbed their flashlights and I was left with my Pringles can. We yelled, what I am sure was a rather pathetic battle cry and shined the light in their eyes. The dogs quickly retreated and we made our way back to the cabin in record time. We all said that the one thought that flashed through our minds was, "No way am I going all the way to Belize to be killed by dogs/rabies." We were pretty shocked that the same dogs that don't move when we walk by them during the day would try to attack us later at night. We have learned our lesson! No being out at night without a flashlight, a Pringles can, and your best battle cry. Haha. Looking back it was a great time!
This week is flying by and we will be done teaching before we know it, but we still need your prayers! God has done a lot during our time here. He has drawn us into community with each other, he has humbled our hearts, he has made us better teachers, and he continues to make us more culturally responsive. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Reflection from Rachel
Awe.
I think that has been one of the words that I've thought the most this trip. From palm trees waving, to magnificent caves, to a brilliant sunrise on the plane. I literally have had no words, but just stand there, tongue-tied, and think, 'God, you are SO AWEsome. Awe-inspiring.' God's power, creativeness and beauty have been displayed.
I know the other girls have posted explaining about what we have done since we've been here, so I won't recount everything, although climbing huge Mayan ruins, seeing waterfalls, and hiking in caves has been SO cool (don't worry Dad, I refrained from climbing rocks in the cave, although I really wanted to :) ).
I think I can speak for everyone in that we have tried many new things and have enjoyed a beautiful landscape (Ohio's cornfields can inspire awe, but mountains and waterpools are a nice change of pace).
I really don't know what to write about, because we have had so many good experiences, but I think I will give an update about school as we are all consumed with writing lesson plans this week. It has been encouraging to see how everyone has helped each other come up with ideas, share supplies, and really come together as a community. When one of us has a good day in our class, and lessons went well and students behaved, that person is able to be support for another who just wants to cry and quit teaching because the students are bouncing off the walls from being cooped up from the rain. I am so proud of ever girl here, and have enjoyed getting to know them all on a deeper level. God is working in all of us, even through hardships.
The past few days we have inhaled enough chalkdust to last a life time. We have signed in desperation because the kids are crazy, and classroom management is not what we expect or would desire. We have smiled when kids have given us kisses before they leave for break. I've come back somedays with bruises from kids hitting me and the next day covered in stickers for being a good teacher. I think for everyone, there are up and down moments, but all in all, we are discovering why we love teaching. I am realizing how a smile and encouragement can really make a difference between hating school and enjoying learning. Tomorrow is a new day, and a chance to be Jesus to our students!
Continue to pray for us as we are stretched and especially as our lessons are observed this week and some are nervous. Pray for patience, especially as communication barriers make it extremely frustrating at times to remain calm and kind. We love and miss everyone back home! See you soon!
Love,
Rachel
I think that has been one of the words that I've thought the most this trip. From palm trees waving, to magnificent caves, to a brilliant sunrise on the plane. I literally have had no words, but just stand there, tongue-tied, and think, 'God, you are SO AWEsome. Awe-inspiring.' God's power, creativeness and beauty have been displayed.
I know the other girls have posted explaining about what we have done since we've been here, so I won't recount everything, although climbing huge Mayan ruins, seeing waterfalls, and hiking in caves has been SO cool (don't worry Dad, I refrained from climbing rocks in the cave, although I really wanted to :) ).
I think I can speak for everyone in that we have tried many new things and have enjoyed a beautiful landscape (Ohio's cornfields can inspire awe, but mountains and waterpools are a nice change of pace).
I really don't know what to write about, because we have had so many good experiences, but I think I will give an update about school as we are all consumed with writing lesson plans this week. It has been encouraging to see how everyone has helped each other come up with ideas, share supplies, and really come together as a community. When one of us has a good day in our class, and lessons went well and students behaved, that person is able to be support for another who just wants to cry and quit teaching because the students are bouncing off the walls from being cooped up from the rain. I am so proud of ever girl here, and have enjoyed getting to know them all on a deeper level. God is working in all of us, even through hardships.
The past few days we have inhaled enough chalkdust to last a life time. We have signed in desperation because the kids are crazy, and classroom management is not what we expect or would desire. We have smiled when kids have given us kisses before they leave for break. I've come back somedays with bruises from kids hitting me and the next day covered in stickers for being a good teacher. I think for everyone, there are up and down moments, but all in all, we are discovering why we love teaching. I am realizing how a smile and encouragement can really make a difference between hating school and enjoying learning. Tomorrow is a new day, and a chance to be Jesus to our students!
Continue to pray for us as we are stretched and especially as our lessons are observed this week and some are nervous. Pray for patience, especially as communication barriers make it extremely frustrating at times to remain calm and kind. We love and miss everyone back home! See you soon!
Love,
Rachel
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Hurricanes
I am pretty sure we slept through a hurricane Sunday night, at least it sounded like that from all the rain hitting the tin roof. Monday morning I had 10 students missing from my class of 26. My cooperating teacher said that they were absent because of all the rain and the mud that it caused, parents don't want their children walking through all the mud to get to a road that leads to school. Plus, all the rain brings out the tarantulas and snakes, I can't really blame them for not wanting to come. Monday morning I taught a lesson on addition without regrouping and my students were awesome!! They really got a grasp of the lesson and worked so quietly when they had seat work. I even had them play a game in groups (I was concerned about the group work because my cooperating teacher never has them work in groups) and they worked so well together! I could not have been more proud of them! I got to read to them a lot in the afternoon and school ended before I knew it. The school days just seem to fly by. After dinner we convinced Jean "The Beast" (nickname from her awesome driving capabilities) to drive us to the Chinese Market to get some ice cream. We ate away our homesickness with the delicious treat and returned to the campgrounds for devotions. The night was spent listening to the rainfall and preparing for our lessons.
Tuesday: I am already exhausted from school and it is only 12:31. My highlight of the was when I walked into the classroom and saw many of my students huddling around books that I have read and given to them in previous days. They are really learning to love reading. My cooperating teacher handed me the Scripture passage first thing this morning and told me to teach it. So I had a nice impromptu lesson on God providing for the Israelite's needs as they left Egypt and traveled to the Promised Land. I then retaught my addition lesson from yesterday (mainly to catch up the 10 students that were absent). I introduced addition problems that were written horizontally instead of vertically and that proved to be quite a struggle. We worked our way through and made it to morning recess. As I was walking out of the classroom to go get a snack from the cafeteria my cooperating teacher handed me a large sheet of paper and instructed me to write down sentences that had words containing the blended consonants "ch" and "sh". I diligently came up with a few absurd sentences and ran down to get a snack. I returned to the classroom to discover that my cooperating teacher was nowhere to be seen. Recess ended and still no cooperating teacher. I lined the students up, had them enter the classroom, read them a few books, and then taught an impromptu lesson on the blended consonants "ch" and "sh". (My cooperating teacher eventually returned 30 minutes into the lesson.) After the hour long lesson I was finally able to get them some silent reading time. They were so excited to read the books and I was really proud of them for making their best attempt at the words. Prayers are appreciated for all us as we don't know what the afternoon will hold. :) We love and miss you all!
Tuesday: I am already exhausted from school and it is only 12:31. My highlight of the was when I walked into the classroom and saw many of my students huddling around books that I have read and given to them in previous days. They are really learning to love reading. My cooperating teacher handed me the Scripture passage first thing this morning and told me to teach it. So I had a nice impromptu lesson on God providing for the Israelite's needs as they left Egypt and traveled to the Promised Land. I then retaught my addition lesson from yesterday (mainly to catch up the 10 students that were absent). I introduced addition problems that were written horizontally instead of vertically and that proved to be quite a struggle. We worked our way through and made it to morning recess. As I was walking out of the classroom to go get a snack from the cafeteria my cooperating teacher handed me a large sheet of paper and instructed me to write down sentences that had words containing the blended consonants "ch" and "sh". I diligently came up with a few absurd sentences and ran down to get a snack. I returned to the classroom to discover that my cooperating teacher was nowhere to be seen. Recess ended and still no cooperating teacher. I lined the students up, had them enter the classroom, read them a few books, and then taught an impromptu lesson on the blended consonants "ch" and "sh". (My cooperating teacher eventually returned 30 minutes into the lesson.) After the hour long lesson I was finally able to get them some silent reading time. They were so excited to read the books and I was really proud of them for making their best attempt at the words. Prayers are appreciated for all us as we don't know what the afternoon will hold. :) We love and miss you all!
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Reflection from Clarissa
Beautiful Belize
Wow. What more can I say than that one word? It has only been nine days since we landed in the little Belizean airport and I already feel like I have been here for at least a month. I remember when we first got here, we were so scared, nervous, and already homesick out of our wits as we went from everything comfortable to, as my friend Brittany likes to say, "cold turkey Belize." Haha. By now we are very settled in at the Nazarene Campground as we have been here a week. We are used to cold showers, have seen a few tarantulas, and have, more than once, gotten caught in a few "torrential" tropical downpours. So far yesterday, Saturday, was the most amazing day by far. After traveling two and a half hours on a bumpy dirt road we arrived at a spot where we hiked downhill half a mile to see a huge waterfall. It was amazing! To add to the rainforest experience, it started pouring on our way back up the hill. It was very fun! We also went to the Rio Frio Cave and were awestruck at the beauty and enormous size of the cave. To end our day, we went to the Mountain Pine Ridge pools. We all swam around moss covered rocks and under a small waterfall. The pools were unbelievable and so much fun! I mean, how many people can say they swam in the rainforest and hiked a few miles also? The day was perfect! Personally, yesterday reminded me of the beauty of God. I mean, he didn't have to create such wonders for us to enjoy, but he did. And that not only makes me feel so loved, but puts a giant smile on my face as well. As for today, Sunday, it has been a nice relaxing day for all of us. We went to church in Succotz this morning. I got to help lead worship with my cooperating teacher! (That was a once in a lifetime experience!) After church, we came back and have spent the rest of the day working on lesson plans for our week in the schools to come. It's been a great day of bonding with each other and laughing. For all of you out there reading this, know that God is doing amazing things here in Belize and in each and everyone of our lives. I know my own eyes have been opened and my confidence has already been built! I can't wait for the next two weeks and not to mention to come home and share my experiences! Continue praying for us! Mom, Dad, Garrison, Carina, and Gavin I love you and miss you all! See you in twelve days! :)
Until then,
Adios amigos!
Clarissa
Wow. What more can I say than that one word? It has only been nine days since we landed in the little Belizean airport and I already feel like I have been here for at least a month. I remember when we first got here, we were so scared, nervous, and already homesick out of our wits as we went from everything comfortable to, as my friend Brittany likes to say, "cold turkey Belize." Haha. By now we are very settled in at the Nazarene Campground as we have been here a week. We are used to cold showers, have seen a few tarantulas, and have, more than once, gotten caught in a few "torrential" tropical downpours. So far yesterday, Saturday, was the most amazing day by far. After traveling two and a half hours on a bumpy dirt road we arrived at a spot where we hiked downhill half a mile to see a huge waterfall. It was amazing! To add to the rainforest experience, it started pouring on our way back up the hill. It was very fun! We also went to the Rio Frio Cave and were awestruck at the beauty and enormous size of the cave. To end our day, we went to the Mountain Pine Ridge pools. We all swam around moss covered rocks and under a small waterfall. The pools were unbelievable and so much fun! I mean, how many people can say they swam in the rainforest and hiked a few miles also? The day was perfect! Personally, yesterday reminded me of the beauty of God. I mean, he didn't have to create such wonders for us to enjoy, but he did. And that not only makes me feel so loved, but puts a giant smile on my face as well. As for today, Sunday, it has been a nice relaxing day for all of us. We went to church in Succotz this morning. I got to help lead worship with my cooperating teacher! (That was a once in a lifetime experience!) After church, we came back and have spent the rest of the day working on lesson plans for our week in the schools to come. It's been a great day of bonding with each other and laughing. For all of you out there reading this, know that God is doing amazing things here in Belize and in each and everyone of our lives. I know my own eyes have been opened and my confidence has already been built! I can't wait for the next two weeks and not to mention to come home and share my experiences! Continue praying for us! Mom, Dad, Garrison, Carina, and Gavin I love you and miss you all! See you in twelve days! :)
Until then,
Adios amigos!
Clarissa
Pizza!!
The rain continued last night leading to a lazy Sunday. A few of us education majors went with the other two MVNU groups to church in San Ignacio. My school is in San Ignacio and I was hoping to see some of my students there. Unfortunately, I didn't see any of my students while I was there. The service was nice and the message was one that I needed to hear. An after church lunch of BBQ chicken was a delicious way to transition into a sweet midafternoon nap. The afternoon was filled with lesson planning for most of us. The other two MVNU groups staying at the campgrounds with us left after lunch for a week in the southern part of the country. It has been strangely quiet without the other 25 students here. We had PIZZA for dinner, I think it was the highlight of everyone's day. It will be a long night of preparing for lessons and hanging out. Today was a much needed day of rest.
I have found myself wishing away this next week. Next Sunday we will be leaving for Caye Caulker and we are all really excited about it! This week also brings a lot of stress as we are being observed and graded on the lessons that we are teaching. I know this next week in the classroom will be an amazing one that I know I will want to relive. I am praying for patience and to just enjoy the moment, not rushing ahead and thinking too much about the future.
Prayers for all of us are very appreciated this next week as we pour out our hearts into our classroom. We all send our love home!
I have found myself wishing away this next week. Next Sunday we will be leaving for Caye Caulker and we are all really excited about it! This week also brings a lot of stress as we are being observed and graded on the lessons that we are teaching. I know this next week in the classroom will be an amazing one that I know I will want to relive. I am praying for patience and to just enjoy the moment, not rushing ahead and thinking too much about the future.
Prayers for all of us are very appreciated this next week as we pour out our hearts into our classroom. We all send our love home!
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Reflection from Brittany Roberts
Picture this: You wake up at 6am to roosters crowing and dogs barking like crazy. You know how in the movies, the rooster crows once, everyone wakes up, and the day goes on? No, roosters crow EVERY second of the day AND night. Anyways, you sit up in your canopy of a bug net, peel yourself out of your damp sheets, climb down from the top of your triple decker bunk bed, and walk past 45 other sweaty, snoring girls to the bathroom. Oh the bathroom. The bathrooms are BYOTP (bring your own toilet paper). Luckily, toilet paper was bought for us shortly after we got here, but no tp is typical for Belizean restrooms. The bathroom smells awful and it only gets worse when you turn on the shower. While standing in the shower, wearing flip-flops, you have to hold your breath as the freezing cold water flows down from a skinny stream out of the shower head. As you dry off with your damp, smelly towel you've used way too many days in a row, you're thinking, what the heck am I doing here? And then we start to see Belize, meet its people and you realize, I'm here because God led me here.
This life us girls are living while being here is WAY out of most of our comfort zones. We complain about our cold showers, damp beds, the fact that we have to brush our teeth with water out of our water bottles...but this is life for most Belizeans, minus the fact that we have access to clean water. We complain about our cement floors, walls and tin roofs, but most Belizeans live in run down, cement homes with dirt floors. But these people are the most beautiful, happy, loving people I've ever met. It puts so much into perspective.
When you think of developing countries, you have the mindset that you're going there to help them. But the people here have already done so much for me in the week I've been here than I could ever imagine doing for them in my life. They are so family oriented and friendly. Everywhere we go, we get smiles and waves. When I go home I know a piece of my heart will be left in Belize. With the people, with Howard Smith Nazarene Primary School, with the amazingly beautiful land, and with the Succotz Nazarene campgrounds.
When I reflect on this past week, I am so thankful I get this experience, that God chose me to completely step out of the routine of my life, and to minister to me. In the classroom, God has blessed me with the greatest cooperating teacher I've ever had, some of the cutest 3 and 4 year olds I've ever seen and, despite the language barrier between my students and I, the opportunity to find unique and special ways to connect with my students. I am looking forward to this next week, to have more chances to love and be loved by my students, to connect with them and my cooperating teacher, and to continue to enjoy this amazing experience God has brought my way. I miss home more than anything, but I know that God is allowing me to use these last 2 weeks to continue building the relationships I am building here, with my students, and the other girls on this trip.
To everyone back home, I miss you all so much, I love you tons, and I will see you all in two weeks! Continue praying for us all. We appreciate every prayer!
Much love,
Brittany Roberts
This life us girls are living while being here is WAY out of most of our comfort zones. We complain about our cold showers, damp beds, the fact that we have to brush our teeth with water out of our water bottles...but this is life for most Belizeans, minus the fact that we have access to clean water. We complain about our cement floors, walls and tin roofs, but most Belizeans live in run down, cement homes with dirt floors. But these people are the most beautiful, happy, loving people I've ever met. It puts so much into perspective.
When you think of developing countries, you have the mindset that you're going there to help them. But the people here have already done so much for me in the week I've been here than I could ever imagine doing for them in my life. They are so family oriented and friendly. Everywhere we go, we get smiles and waves. When I go home I know a piece of my heart will be left in Belize. With the people, with Howard Smith Nazarene Primary School, with the amazingly beautiful land, and with the Succotz Nazarene campgrounds.
When I reflect on this past week, I am so thankful I get this experience, that God chose me to completely step out of the routine of my life, and to minister to me. In the classroom, God has blessed me with the greatest cooperating teacher I've ever had, some of the cutest 3 and 4 year olds I've ever seen and, despite the language barrier between my students and I, the opportunity to find unique and special ways to connect with my students. I am looking forward to this next week, to have more chances to love and be loved by my students, to connect with them and my cooperating teacher, and to continue to enjoy this amazing experience God has brought my way. I miss home more than anything, but I know that God is allowing me to use these last 2 weeks to continue building the relationships I am building here, with my students, and the other girls on this trip.
To everyone back home, I miss you all so much, I love you tons, and I will see you all in two weeks! Continue praying for us all. We appreciate every prayer!
Much love,
Brittany Roberts
Exhausting
Friday afternoon in the classroom was the hardest for me so far. My heart was totally broken. I got back to our cabin, ate a quick dinner, and walked to the nearby high school's basketball court, sat down, looked up at the stars, and cried me eyes out. I felt completely empty and broken, but God used the opportunity to allow me to be filled completely with Him. I felt so blessed and renewed by the end of the night. I know that this coming week in the classroom is going to be a good one. I am excited to teach my lessons and focus on loving on my kids.
Last night we experienced our first Belizean rain fall. The pros: We were already in our cabin getting ready for bed. The cons: my towel was out on the clothes line, everythings stinks now, we have a tim roof which is extremely noisy with the heavy heavy rain, and the intense amount of rain filled all the snake and tarantula holes leading them into our cabins (luckily only the boys have found them in their cabin).
On a normal Saturday during jterm I would sleep in until 9:30, take my time getting ready, chicken patties for lunch, and homework for the remainder of the day. Today puts every past Saturday to shame!! We arose at 7 and soon departed for our 2 hour ride to the cave and waterfall that we were hiking too. Luckily, we rented 3 vans and drivers to drive us around today because the 2 hour ride was on an extremely muddy dirt road that was full of pot holes. After almost getting stuck multiple times, fishtailing down the road, and getting pretty motion sick in the process we arrived at the Pine Ridge Waterfall. Words can describe and even the pictures can't do justice to how majestic God's creation is. The steep hike to get down to the falls was totally worth it! The hike back up was made extremely difficult when it started pouring rain. We all made it up alive with only a few wipe outs, bruises, scraped hands, and one sprained ankle (quickly healed by ice). From the waterfalls we ate our packed lunch and headed to the cave. We picked up two military escorts along the way (they have had troubles with tourists being mugged before) and soon arrived at the cave. The cave was indescribable, such a testament to God's power. After the caves we went back to the waterfalls (this time from a different angle and much closer). We took advantage of the beautiful weather and took a swim in the pools of water. It was so refreshing to soak up the rays and wade through the cool water! Two hours later we arrived back at our campgrounds (motion sick again) ate a quick dinner and are now preparing for bed. Today was so exhausting and exhilarating. We will sleep well tonight.
Last night we experienced our first Belizean rain fall. The pros: We were already in our cabin getting ready for bed. The cons: my towel was out on the clothes line, everythings stinks now, we have a tim roof which is extremely noisy with the heavy heavy rain, and the intense amount of rain filled all the snake and tarantula holes leading them into our cabins (luckily only the boys have found them in their cabin).
On a normal Saturday during jterm I would sleep in until 9:30, take my time getting ready, chicken patties for lunch, and homework for the remainder of the day. Today puts every past Saturday to shame!! We arose at 7 and soon departed for our 2 hour ride to the cave and waterfall that we were hiking too. Luckily, we rented 3 vans and drivers to drive us around today because the 2 hour ride was on an extremely muddy dirt road that was full of pot holes. After almost getting stuck multiple times, fishtailing down the road, and getting pretty motion sick in the process we arrived at the Pine Ridge Waterfall. Words can describe and even the pictures can't do justice to how majestic God's creation is. The steep hike to get down to the falls was totally worth it! The hike back up was made extremely difficult when it started pouring rain. We all made it up alive with only a few wipe outs, bruises, scraped hands, and one sprained ankle (quickly healed by ice). From the waterfalls we ate our packed lunch and headed to the cave. We picked up two military escorts along the way (they have had troubles with tourists being mugged before) and soon arrived at the cave. The cave was indescribable, such a testament to God's power. After the caves we went back to the waterfalls (this time from a different angle and much closer). We took advantage of the beautiful weather and took a swim in the pools of water. It was so refreshing to soak up the rays and wade through the cool water! Two hours later we arrived back at our campgrounds (motion sick again) ate a quick dinner and are now preparing for bed. Today was so exhausting and exhilarating. We will sleep well tonight.
Friday, January 13, 2012
One Week Down
We have been in Belize for a whole week already, in many ways this week has flown by, yet at the same time I feel like we have been here forever. We are, for the most part, set in new routines and feeling pretty comfortable in our schools. I can finally buy my own lunch now. Haha. The cafeteria at Faith Nazarene School reminds me of a concession stand at a football game, you walk up and order your food. However, unlike North America where we wait in orderly lines to order, everyone just pushes their way to the front, waving their money in the air, and yelling what they want. I found out the first day that I am not a very pushy person as a group of Standard 3 (5th grade) boys pushed past me. At least I have 1 1/2 hours for lunch, I can just wait until the crowd is gone to get my food. Today we had the delicacy of beef for lunch. After having baked chicken for every lunch and dinner the past week the beef was a welcome change!
I have become a lot more comfortable in my classroom and with my cooperating teacher. I know most of the kid's names (even though they still laugh when I pronounce some of them) and I feel comfortable stepping in when my cooperating teacher isn't helping students that could really use guidance. Today has been a much better day in the classroom, the smiles on the children's faces confirm that I am doing things right. :)
Oh, I forgot to mention in last night's post that the well broke and we found a tarantula. Fortunately, the well was fixed in a timely manner and we didn't have to go too long without running water. As for the tarantula, as my van got back to our campgrounds from school we walked out to see a little Belizean boy. He ran over to us yelling, "Miss, miss I have a gift for you!" We all that it was such a sweet gesture, until we saw the nice-sized tarantula that he had in a cup! We quickly denied his offer and ran the other way. I guess we can't say that we are completely comfortable in the Belizean culture. Haha.
I have become a lot more comfortable in my classroom and with my cooperating teacher. I know most of the kid's names (even though they still laugh when I pronounce some of them) and I feel comfortable stepping in when my cooperating teacher isn't helping students that could really use guidance. Today has been a much better day in the classroom, the smiles on the children's faces confirm that I am doing things right. :)
Oh, I forgot to mention in last night's post that the well broke and we found a tarantula. Fortunately, the well was fixed in a timely manner and we didn't have to go too long without running water. As for the tarantula, as my van got back to our campgrounds from school we walked out to see a little Belizean boy. He ran over to us yelling, "Miss, miss I have a gift for you!" We all that it was such a sweet gesture, until we saw the nice-sized tarantula that he had in a cup! We quickly denied his offer and ran the other way. I guess we can't say that we are completely comfortable in the Belizean culture. Haha.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Faith, Hope, and Love
Well, my second day in the classroom is over. My lesson on teeth and tooth decay went well. I had know idea what their background knowledge was and even what the content standards were for the subject. I did a little chant with the differed types of teeth and their purpose and tried to model many different active brain strategies for my cooperating teacher. Knowing that I can teach without any preparation or planning has definitely built up my confidence as a teacher. God has called me to teaching and has blessed me with the abilities that I need to succeed. "Do not neglect the gift that is in you..." 1 Timothy 4:14
I have realized that my problem comes with the fact that I just want to fix everything. I want to fix my students who are being abused by their family members, I want to fix their living conditions, I want to fix their quality of education, the list is endless and there is not enough time to fix it while I am here. However I realized today that God doesn't want me to fix everything. The Belizeans have lived successfully praising Jesus for a long time, they don't see the list of things to be fixed the same way that I do. I am not here to fix everything. My mission is to love everyone and share Christ's light. If they learn something from my lessons then I shall consider that a bonus. I am very humbled by knowing that my time in the classroom might not make a huge impact on a struggling boy's ability to read, but I can share my love for reading and give him hope. I am simply planting seeds in the short time that I am here. I will probably never know if they are watered and flourish or if they dry out and die, those are out of my control. I just need to share faith, hope, and love.
I have realized that my problem comes with the fact that I just want to fix everything. I want to fix my students who are being abused by their family members, I want to fix their living conditions, I want to fix their quality of education, the list is endless and there is not enough time to fix it while I am here. However I realized today that God doesn't want me to fix everything. The Belizeans have lived successfully praising Jesus for a long time, they don't see the list of things to be fixed the same way that I do. I am not here to fix everything. My mission is to love everyone and share Christ's light. If they learn something from my lessons then I shall consider that a bonus. I am very humbled by knowing that my time in the classroom might not make a huge impact on a struggling boy's ability to read, but I can share my love for reading and give him hope. I am simply planting seeds in the short time that I am here. I will probably never know if they are watered and flourish or if they dry out and die, those are out of my control. I just need to share faith, hope, and love.
Reflection from Alycia
Since being in Belize I've seen and tried so many new things. I had pig tail for lunch today (it tastes like bacon). I have been amazed by all the beauty around an it has made me think, of the Belizeans came to the USA what would they see as unique and beautiful. I'm also amazed at the giving heart of the children. All they want is our love and affection. In one day I got almonds, chocolate, a plum, candy, and 5 love notes! All the children want is our love and they've taught me so much.
Picture Time
This is a picture of the Mayan ruin that we visited on Sunday. We climbed all the way to the top and were in awe of the amazing view! I am hoping to be uploading more pictures soon, I am just having difficulties with the computers at the school.
Impromptu Teaching
I am currently on the lunch break at Faith Nazarene School. I was excited to go back for my second day in the school and try to unpack more of the culture and find a deeper understanding of the school systems here. I am still seeing a lack in time management, but my cooperating teacher is using good strategies in the classroom! She does a little differentiation for learning styles, but nothing for the students in her class that have exceptional learning needs. During the language arts/reading time I was working closely with some students and realized just how much that don't know. It took the class a full hour to copy down 6 sentences from the board. Most of the students (ages 6-8) don't even know how to spell basic words such as "and" and "the". I even encountered some students who didn't know how to write their letters (c,t,etc.) without looking up at the board for reference. It breaks my heart that they don't have access to books and aren't being read to. I am trying to convince my cooperating teacher to let me read to them everyday. There are so so many fundamentals of literacy that they totally missed. This is definitely been a large shock to me.
Well, my teacher just told me that I am teaching a lesson on teeth in 30 minutes. I have not planned anything and I am not even licensed to teach health in the states. (P.S. We all received a 2 year teaching license in Belize, which is a pretty big deal!) I should probably go brainstorm what I am going to do! Prayers are appreciated!
Well, my teacher just told me that I am teaching a lesson on teeth in 30 minutes. I have not planned anything and I am not even licensed to teach health in the states. (P.S. We all received a 2 year teaching license in Belize, which is a pretty big deal!) I should probably go brainstorm what I am going to do! Prayers are appreciated!
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Unproductive
Unproductive: that is the one word that I feel describes my first day in the classroom. Unproductive as well as overwhelming, culture shock, affectionate, and unforgettable. I don't mean unproductive in the sense that I got nothing out of the day or that I found myself to be very unproductive, my initial unpacking on my Belizean classroom was that I found the classroom to be unproductive. I showed up to Faith Nazarene School a good thirty minutes late, just adding to the new kid feeling of having no idea where I was suppose to be. I went to the principals office and was kindly showed to my classroom were I found 26 Belizean students that soon stole my heart. As soon as I walked into the doorway of the classroom all of the students stood up and all said, "Good morning Miss, welcome to our classroom!" They showed me and my cooperating teacher a great deal of respect throughout the day, I was very impressed. The unproductive classification comes in my teachers use of time management. Compared to my experience in classrooms back in the states my cooperating teacher spent an excessive amount of time on small tasks. Repetition is important in the learning process, but the students spent a good hour repeating orally how to spell the word "this". My cooperating teacher wasn't even paying attention to them for the whole hour, at one point in time she even sent them outside and just stayed in to clean the classroom. They just patiently stood outside and repeated, "t-h-I-s". I am teaching Infant Standard 2 which is equivalent to 2nd grade in the states, however their reading ability is lacking. The Belizean students are still working on reading sentences as simple as, "The dog is in the house." while students the same age at home are reading and comprehending textbooks with scientific language. I think the gap comes from the lack of books in Belize. I have more books in my closet than are in my second grade classroom and public libraries are very rare in Belize. Students aren't read to and the deficits in their reading show this. The students are also fluent in multiple languages (English, Spanish, Creole) and I am aware that the multiple languages can have an impact on their reading ability. I definitely have my work cut out for me when it comes to teaching language arts in the classroom. Tomorrow, I will read aloud to them as often as I can!! One positive of my day was the 1 1/2 hour lunch break. A lot of the students walk home for lunch so the break for lunch is significantly longer than those in the states. I bought my lunch from the school and was impressed with my homemade rice and beans, baked chicken, and potato salad. School lunches definitely beat school lunches in the states any day! Lunch ended at 1 pm and the Infant Standards are dismissed at 2:20pm. The rest of the school day flew by and I can't think of anything that the students accomplished during that time. I fell that proper time management would help to close the gap in the student's achievement. After a nerve wrecking drive back to the campgrounds and a delicious dinner we had our group devotions. I have really come to love this time every day, we unpack our day, and grow closer as we share our fears and successes. The trip is going great and we have just started working in our classrooms. Continue to pray for us as many of us are teaching in our classrooms tomorrow. We send our love and blessings! God is being so good to us. :)
Things I miss from home: beef, real coffee
Things I miss from home: beef, real coffee
Reflections from Meredith
The other day I was trying to figure out how I could be so comfortable in a culture I have just encountered. The culture here in Belize is amazing. The people here are so important. Relationships take a high priority in this culture. Everything that I see seems to agree with this statement. The houses here are small, which is an easy way to get people closer together! :) The houses are also close to the road, and the people come out to wave and to greet you as you walk by. As a visitor in Belize, everyone is so friendly and open toward you. I know that if I were to liven Belize it would be different but visiting is amazing! I think that if I would be so surprised by the fast-paced, time-driven culture that rarely focuses on meaningful relationships. Although we are here to teach, I feel that I have so much to learn. I love that here people are placed first and time is placed last. So, as I close, I want to remind you to take time to simply spend with those you love. Engage in conversations with people, and share a smile wherever you go! Pass on some of the Belizean culture!! :)
Meredith Stewart
Meredith Stewart
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
January 10th - Tomorrow is the day!!!
Today was the second day of seminars for the Belizean teachers. It was such a good experience to work with our cooperating teachers before being thrust into the classroom. The seminars contained a lot of new information for Belizean teachers, but they have been eagerly soaking up the new knowledge. God has been so good. Tomorrow we are in our classrooms for the first time, I couldn't be more excited. I am with Mrs. Terry with Infant 2 (our 2nd grade) with 26 very energetic kids.
After our seminar we talked into town (which is quite an experience on Belizean roads). As we walk down the street everyone waves and says hello from their yard/window. You could tell that they weren't just talking to us because we are the foreign Americans, they talk to us because they actually want to build a relationship with us. I really appreciate that part of their culture, the children are so trusting and everyone is so friendly. Of course, this can be a negative (like during the seminar when they continue conversations with ohers next to them building relationships instead of listening to the speaker). We went to the market and did some bartering, found a local grocery store and bought some ice cream, and then started the uphill hike back home. On our way back to our campgrounds a Caucasian man passed us while he was out running, turned around and yelled, "Yay white people!!" It was hilarious! We are still getting used to being the minority.
Having the evenings free is a great time to build relationships with the other girls. We have all grown so close in the past few days, staying up late and distracting our professors on a regular occurrence. I feel like I have been here for so long, but it has only been here 4 full days. It is so weird to think about, we have already become set in some routines and really are feeling so comfortable already. I would love to write more, but it is almost 10pm and we go to bed super early (when the sun goes down we head to bed and wake up when it rises...or when the dogs start barking in the middle of the night). Continue to pray for us tomorrow as we head into our classrooms, we are really anxious to meet our students.
After our seminar we talked into town (which is quite an experience on Belizean roads). As we walk down the street everyone waves and says hello from their yard/window. You could tell that they weren't just talking to us because we are the foreign Americans, they talk to us because they actually want to build a relationship with us. I really appreciate that part of their culture, the children are so trusting and everyone is so friendly. Of course, this can be a negative (like during the seminar when they continue conversations with ohers next to them building relationships instead of listening to the speaker). We went to the market and did some bartering, found a local grocery store and bought some ice cream, and then started the uphill hike back home. On our way back to our campgrounds a Caucasian man passed us while he was out running, turned around and yelled, "Yay white people!!" It was hilarious! We are still getting used to being the minority.
Having the evenings free is a great time to build relationships with the other girls. We have all grown so close in the past few days, staying up late and distracting our professors on a regular occurrence. I feel like I have been here for so long, but it has only been here 4 full days. It is so weird to think about, we have already become set in some routines and really are feeling so comfortable already. I would love to write more, but it is almost 10pm and we go to bed super early (when the sun goes down we head to bed and wake up when it rises...or when the dogs start barking in the middle of the night). Continue to pray for us tomorrow as we head into our classrooms, we are really anxious to meet our students.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Teachers will be teachers!
January 9th: Today was a day we have been anticipating for so long...we got to meet our cooperating teachers today and interact with them during continuing education workshops that Professor Crouso, Metcalfe, and Taylor put on. None of us really knew what to expect when meeting the teachers we would be spending the next two weeks with. We have found one thing to be true, no matter what our cultural differences are, teachers will be teachers. As we got to know each other and talk about struggles with students and classroom management we realized that we all have the same struggles and frustrations. This brought us such a feeling of unity, we are both working to bring Christ's love to broken and wounded children. We are so encouraged now that we have met our teachers, this is truly turning into a life changing experience. Tomorrow will be another 6 hours of workshops with our cooperating teachers, the Belizeans are such relational people that it is very easy to get to know them.
The Belizeans have different certifications required to be teachers than we do in the states and it was interesting talking to them about the limited education that they received before being able to teach. A lot of the Belizean teachers were hanging onto our every word about literacy and classroom management. Being an intervention specialist major I was deeply impacted to hear that there is no real developed special education in Belize. Students with exceptional learning needs are put in classrooms with the "normal" students and are just held back if they don't reach the standards. I hope to work a lot with the students struggling in my classroom.
One interesting cultural difference is the judgment of distances. Not many Belizeans have private vehicles so they walk everywhere they need to go. I asked my cooperating teacher of she loved very far from the school she replied," Oh no no no, I live 1 1/2 miles away!!" I lived a 7 minute drove from my high school and I thought was was close. It can take my cooperating teacher over 40 minutes to walk to work. Belize is roughly the size of Massachusettes, which seems so small to me, but because of their lack of transportation loving on the other side of the country is so far away.
Thank you for all of the prayers, they are really being answered. :) We all send our love home!! Feel free to leave comments, I will be reading them to the girls at our nightly meetings.
The Belizeans have different certifications required to be teachers than we do in the states and it was interesting talking to them about the limited education that they received before being able to teach. A lot of the Belizean teachers were hanging onto our every word about literacy and classroom management. Being an intervention specialist major I was deeply impacted to hear that there is no real developed special education in Belize. Students with exceptional learning needs are put in classrooms with the "normal" students and are just held back if they don't reach the standards. I hope to work a lot with the students struggling in my classroom.
One interesting cultural difference is the judgment of distances. Not many Belizeans have private vehicles so they walk everywhere they need to go. I asked my cooperating teacher of she loved very far from the school she replied," Oh no no no, I live 1 1/2 miles away!!" I lived a 7 minute drove from my high school and I thought was was close. It can take my cooperating teacher over 40 minutes to walk to work. Belize is roughly the size of Massachusettes, which seems so small to me, but because of their lack of transportation loving on the other side of the country is so far away.
Thank you for all of the prayers, they are really being answered. :) We all send our love home!! Feel free to leave comments, I will be reading them to the girls at our nightly meetings.
Reflection from Jeaneen
Today was a really exciting day for all of us. Not because we did some tourist attraction or went shopping but because we got to meet our cooperating teachers and interact with them. For me this meant a unique opportunity to bring two cultures together. I am ashamed to admit that I thought we would not have much in common with them and that we would be wildly different from each other. The reality was, however, that we were so much more alike than we thought. For example, many of us had similar families, and perhaps my favorite thing was the realization that we both like to laugh. I think I was so focused on noticing the differences instead of celebrating the similarities. From the words of the Belizean pastor, "after all we all worship the same God." I cannot wait to discover more amazing things about this wonderful place and these amazing people.
Reflection from Heather S.
Greetings!
Our team was able to experience a lot of amazing experiences here in
Belize, we began our morning by having the privilege to attend Pastor
Eric's church (The Nazarene Church of Succotz). The experience was
very special as we were not only able to interact with the people and
children of the church, but also we were able to worship in such a
unique way in both English and Spanish. Although, we worshiped in two
languages we were reminded that we all serve one God, what a wonderful
reminder! We were so lovingly greeted by the people of the church and
welcomed! The sense of community is one of the most amazing parts of
the Belizean culture I have seen so , as everyone looks out for each
other and has a deep care and love for those around them.
We were able to see an amazing part of Belizean history as we were
able to see the Mayan Ruins, we not only were able to see them, but we
were also able to climb the ruins one step at a time. The experience
was quite scary for some and thrilling for others, but once everyone
got to the top we were able to enjoy the scenery of God's majestic
creation surrounding us!
Also we were able to go to the local vendors were we were able to look
at the beautiful handy work of the Belizean men and woman and purchase
some neat pieces to help us remember and share Belize with others at
home!
We really appreciate your prayers and are missing you!
Blessing!
Love,
Heather Sapatka
Our team was able to experience a lot of amazing experiences here in
Belize, we began our morning by having the privilege to attend Pastor
Eric's church (The Nazarene Church of Succotz). The experience was
very special as we were not only able to interact with the people and
children of the church, but also we were able to worship in such a
unique way in both English and Spanish. Although, we worshiped in two
languages we were reminded that we all serve one God, what a wonderful
reminder! We were so lovingly greeted by the people of the church and
welcomed! The sense of community is one of the most amazing parts of
the Belizean culture I have seen so , as everyone looks out for each
other and has a deep care and love for those around them.
We were able to see an amazing part of Belizean history as we were
able to see the Mayan Ruins, we not only were able to see them, but we
were also able to climb the ruins one step at a time. The experience
was quite scary for some and thrilling for others, but once everyone
got to the top we were able to enjoy the scenery of God's majestic
creation surrounding us!
Also we were able to go to the local vendors were we were able to look
at the beautiful handy work of the Belizean men and woman and purchase
some neat pieces to help us remember and share Belize with others at
home!
We really appreciate your prayers and are missing you!
Blessing!
Love,
Heather Sapatka
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Proverbs 16:3
January 6th: We landed in Belize City approximately 30 minutes behind schedule, a lovely introduction to Belizean culture. Landing in Belize was such a broad contrast from our departure from Columbus. As we left Columbus the lights of the city seemed to outnumber the stars, but as we landed in Belize dense vegetation was the only thing in sight. By the grace of God we made it through customs with all of school supplies and workshop materials. By the time we got out of the airport we witnessed our first beautiful sunset and loaded up the bus for the hour long ride to the campground where we were joining other MVNU classes studying in Belize. Let me just say that Americans have the most structured roadways and traffic laws that I have ever seen!! It was quite a fun experience to sit on the bus and pass cars on a road that you don't even think is wide enough for one vehicle! We all safely arrived at the Kindred Spirit Campground and sat down for a spaghetti dinner. I honestly don't remember what the spaghetti tasted like because we ate it all so quickly. We were all pretty exhausted from traveling so we found our cabins and settled in for the night. Our cabins were our first harsh realization that Belize is not like USA. Our bunk beds had a combination of mattresses too big for the frame and and boards too short for the beds, to the point that Liz Lovejoy fell through her top bunk and spent the night sharing a twin bed with me. I didn't mind sharing the bed because it got much colder than any of us expected. Liz, Heather, Alycia, and I did devotions around a palm tree outside with the sound of howler monkies in the distance.
January 7th: We woke up lizards and frogs under the bed, toilets that don't flush, and freezing river water for showers. It was quite eye opening. On the plus side, the freezing river water has made all of our hair super smooth. I was proud to be first in line for breakfast at 7:00 am, it is rather hard to sleep past the sunrise. Multiple types of cereal, hard-boiled eggs, bananas and COFFEE were the delicious options for our first morning meal. After breakfast we packed our bags and headed to the Belize Zoo. The zoo was so beautiful, you can tell that the
zoo was made to be natural habitats for the animals. The zoo was full of animals native to Belize and was a beautiful representation of the country. While observing the jaguar we ran across a crew filming for PBS, to get a good shot they had to turn of the electric fence and cut a small hole in the wire. Luckily the jaguar was content with the treats in the cage and avoided eating us tasty Northern Americans. While at the zoo I somehow managed to get 64 bug bites on my legs, none of them are mosquito bites and they don't itch yet but I can't complain. The weather has been absolutely gorgeous, couldn't ask for anything better. Lunch was tacos at Cheers, the chips and salsa was literally the best I had ever had and the lemonade was homemade and fresh. There are absolutely no complaints to be had about the food. We then loaded all of our luggage in the bed of two pick up trucks for our hour long journey to our new home in Succotz. I am still surprised that we made it the whole way without luggage flying off the trucks, these Belizeans are supreme packers. I never realized how mountainous the country was until we left Belize City. Belize is truly a beautiful country!! We all had a bit of culture shock when we arrived at our cabins in Succotz, we arrived to our cabins and realized that even with bunks three high there weren't enough beds for all of us. In Belizean culture two people to a bed is not uncommon. We remedied the situation by bring over some unused bunks from the boys cabin. Problem solved. We had our first Belizean dinner of chicken, rice and beans, fried plantains, and coke products in glass bottles. I can get very used to the food here! One song lyric has been repeating in my head today, "Praise the Lord, oh my soul, and forget not all his benefits." In all circumstances we have been praising God and his benefits have been overflowing on our journey. During our devotions tonight Professor Crouso reminded us that "We can't mess this up because this is God's and we are just his instrument of mercy." I think I can speak collectively when I say that this reminder brought us all so much peace. We say that we live in community when we are on campus, but I feel that the community on this trip is much more like what Jesus is calling us to. By sharing beds, toilet paper, bug spray, clothes, and emotions all of girls have built closer relationships with each other and with Christ. God is good.
January 8th: Our breakfast this morning was another delicious Belizean meal of eggs, beans, and fried jacks (kind of like elephant ears without the sugar). We went to the local Nazarene church this morning and were truly blessed. I don't think I have cried so much during a church service in my whole life. Praising God in music with the local people was such a blessing, they poured out their whole hearts thanking God for all of the blessings that they were given. I was so humbled. I don't think there was a dry eye in the church when we sang "How Great Is Our God". Church was such a good time of renewal. During one part of the service the pastor had us go around to four other people in the congregation, embrace them in a hug, then look them in the eyes and say "God bless you." For some reason this broke me, to have these Belizeans who live in shacks without clean drinking water to bless me was so humbling. During praise and worship they focused on Proverbs 16:3 "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." God has been speaking words of comfort and peace to us this whole trip and we could not be growing and enjoying it more. Lunch was the most delicious empanadas I have ever had, I am really becoming addicted to this food. We went to the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich. It was a truly amazing experience to climb to the top of the ruins and look out over Belize and Guatemala. The ruins date between 800 and 900 AD. During our devotions tonight we talked about all of the different cultural differences that we have seen. The reflections ranged from the relational focus of the people, the trust of the children, and how the communication is so genuine. God is doing great things, can't wait to share more.
January 7th: We woke up lizards and frogs under the bed, toilets that don't flush, and freezing river water for showers. It was quite eye opening. On the plus side, the freezing river water has made all of our hair super smooth. I was proud to be first in line for breakfast at 7:00 am, it is rather hard to sleep past the sunrise. Multiple types of cereal, hard-boiled eggs, bananas and COFFEE were the delicious options for our first morning meal. After breakfast we packed our bags and headed to the Belize Zoo. The zoo was so beautiful, you can tell that the
zoo was made to be natural habitats for the animals. The zoo was full of animals native to Belize and was a beautiful representation of the country. While observing the jaguar we ran across a crew filming for PBS, to get a good shot they had to turn of the electric fence and cut a small hole in the wire. Luckily the jaguar was content with the treats in the cage and avoided eating us tasty Northern Americans. While at the zoo I somehow managed to get 64 bug bites on my legs, none of them are mosquito bites and they don't itch yet but I can't complain. The weather has been absolutely gorgeous, couldn't ask for anything better. Lunch was tacos at Cheers, the chips and salsa was literally the best I had ever had and the lemonade was homemade and fresh. There are absolutely no complaints to be had about the food. We then loaded all of our luggage in the bed of two pick up trucks for our hour long journey to our new home in Succotz. I am still surprised that we made it the whole way without luggage flying off the trucks, these Belizeans are supreme packers. I never realized how mountainous the country was until we left Belize City. Belize is truly a beautiful country!! We all had a bit of culture shock when we arrived at our cabins in Succotz, we arrived to our cabins and realized that even with bunks three high there weren't enough beds for all of us. In Belizean culture two people to a bed is not uncommon. We remedied the situation by bring over some unused bunks from the boys cabin. Problem solved. We had our first Belizean dinner of chicken, rice and beans, fried plantains, and coke products in glass bottles. I can get very used to the food here! One song lyric has been repeating in my head today, "Praise the Lord, oh my soul, and forget not all his benefits." In all circumstances we have been praising God and his benefits have been overflowing on our journey. During our devotions tonight Professor Crouso reminded us that "We can't mess this up because this is God's and we are just his instrument of mercy." I think I can speak collectively when I say that this reminder brought us all so much peace. We say that we live in community when we are on campus, but I feel that the community on this trip is much more like what Jesus is calling us to. By sharing beds, toilet paper, bug spray, clothes, and emotions all of girls have built closer relationships with each other and with Christ. God is good.
January 8th: Our breakfast this morning was another delicious Belizean meal of eggs, beans, and fried jacks (kind of like elephant ears without the sugar). We went to the local Nazarene church this morning and were truly blessed. I don't think I have cried so much during a church service in my whole life. Praising God in music with the local people was such a blessing, they poured out their whole hearts thanking God for all of the blessings that they were given. I was so humbled. I don't think there was a dry eye in the church when we sang "How Great Is Our God". Church was such a good time of renewal. During one part of the service the pastor had us go around to four other people in the congregation, embrace them in a hug, then look them in the eyes and say "God bless you." For some reason this broke me, to have these Belizeans who live in shacks without clean drinking water to bless me was so humbling. During praise and worship they focused on Proverbs 16:3 "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." God has been speaking words of comfort and peace to us this whole trip and we could not be growing and enjoying it more. Lunch was the most delicious empanadas I have ever had, I am really becoming addicted to this food. We went to the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich. It was a truly amazing experience to climb to the top of the ruins and look out over Belize and Guatemala. The ruins date between 800 and 900 AD. During our devotions tonight we talked about all of the different cultural differences that we have seen. The reflections ranged from the relational focus of the people, the trust of the children, and how the communication is so genuine. God is doing great things, can't wait to share more.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Life in Belize
We are here, safe, happy, tired, and blessed!! We arrived last night (to some amazing 67 degree weather) and drove back to the campground do meet with the other Belize groups. After a quick spaghetti dinner we settled into our cabins and called it a night. Can't post much because we are the buses to depart for Succotz were we will be staying for the remainder of our trip. This trip has been amazing, and we haven't even been here 24 hours. Please continue to keep us in your prayers, God is doing some great things.
Friday, January 6, 2012
Hurry up and wait.
We have spent the past few days in a mad rush of packing, praying, meetings, and running to pick up forgotten items. Now we are sitting in the Houston airport with nothing to do but wait for our flight to Belize. We have had quite an adventure already! From leaving campus at 3 am, to reorganizing bags once we discover that they weigh over the 50 pound weight limit, multiple people experiencing their first flight (with no horror stories) and quickly learning where the best food is at this massive airport. Now we sit in anxious anticipation of the month ahead. This morning before the bus left campus we prayed for peace, patience, flexibility, openness, for God to break our hearts, and for strength...knowing that God has prepared us all for this month. He goes with us into our classrooms and he protects us in all of our travels. I can't help but feel extremely humbled and blessed when I hear of all the people back home praying for us. You don't know just how much your prayers mean to us! These next three weeks are going to be an amazing experience as well as an intense struggle at times. Please do not forget us in your prayers! As we arrive in Belize and travel to our "home base" of Succotz we will be away from internet access until Wednesday, know that I will update the blog as often as I can, so check back frequently to see how our prayers are being answered.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)