Cultural Differences & Experiences So Far

Being in the schools in San Pedro is definitely an adjustment from the schools that I am accustomed to in North Carolina. I came into this experience knowing that things would be drastically different than my past experiences, but I still had some moments of cultural shock and discomfort within my first few days at the school. For example, in the States, I am accustomed to behavioral issues mainly being handled in private if the principal is involved. Within my first few days at the elementary school, the principal came in and verbally reprimanded a few of my students in front of the entire class. At first, I was extremely taken aback, as I had never seen something like this before. As I felt myself starting to panic, I had to remind myself that discipline is handled much differently here than in America. Once I was able to realize that this was what the students and teachers were accustomed to, I was able to take a step back and accept that this is how they handle things. While I'm not sure that I would ever handle behaviors in this way due to my own culture, I have come to terms with the fact that this probably won't be the last time I see this while I am here.

In other news, the schools are on their two week Easter Break right now, which means no school for us. Today, we started community outreach projects such as cleaning and painting the schools, volunteering at the local humane society, and working a day camp at the local library. I am so glad that we are having the opportunity to reach out beyond the schools while we are here. It is giving me an opportunity to get to know others outside of the school and to see more of San Pedro. On Thursday morning, we will take the water taxi inland to San Ignacio for a few days. During this time, we will visit the Belize Zoo, Mayan Ruins, and experience a few other excursions. I'm SO excited for this opportunity. Food here is still as great as ever, and I am definitely going to have to invest in a tortilla press when I get home, fresh tortillas just trump store bought tortillas in every way! Yesterday, Savannah, Ali, and I ventured to the end of the island to a coffee shop called Rum & Bean. It was my first coffee since arriving and it was DELICIOUS. On the way home, it down-poured and we got SOAKED in water and mud during the bike ride. Such a mess, but such a great memory! Love to you all back home!

(After our rainy, rainy bike ride - Totally worth it)