What an amazing week I have had! Monday was my first day in the schools, and it was a whirlwind! Schools here are much different than those in America. For starters, children are given much more freedom to be kids, which is amazing in some ways, and then a little intense in others. Classroom management systems are also very different, and will definitely take some getting used to. What I love about the school that I'm at is that it is such a mix of cultures. From Russian, to Lebanese, to Latin American children, you can see it all within one classroom. Also, in terms of San Pedro as a whole, I love that it is so hard to see the differentiation in social classes. In America, I feel that we make it really obvious what social status someone has, and that drives a wedge between many people. However, in San Pedro, I don't feel that. Perhaps it's because I'm an outsider, but either way, it's comforting and amazing to see.
Today, I had the opportunity to go inland and visit Stella Maris, and school designed specifically for students with disabilities. My heart is so full of love and happiness as I reflect on my time at the school. They are truly doing amazing things to help their students transition into their future lives. Their librarian is even one of their former students, and he raves about how Stella Maris prepared him for living his life independently. Since there are not true special education classes in San Pedro, getting to go to Belize City and see these children and the program was an incredible experience!
I already feel the impact that this experience is making on me, and can't wait to see what else is to come!
(Some of the students I've been working with at Isla Bonita)
(A few children from Stella Maris)
No comments:
Post a Comment